Bill > SB6045

This bill extends collective bargaining rights to agricultural employees by placing them under the jurisdiction of the Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC), which is the state agency that oversees labor relations for public employees. This means agricultural workers will have the right to organize, form unions, and negotiate with their employers over wages, hours, and working conditions, similar to other workers. The bill defines key terms like "agricultural employee" and "agricultural employer," and outlines unfair labor practices for both employers and farmworker labor organizations. It also establishes procedures for determining bargaining representatives through cross-checks or elections, and for resolving labor disputes through mediation and arbitration. Importantly, the bill acknowledges the unique challenges faced by agricultural workers, such as seasonal employment and language barriers, and mandates that the PERC administer these rights in an expeditious and culturally appropriate manner, including providing information in multiple languages. A minor amendment is also made to existing law regarding spousal privilege in legal proceedings to include farmworker labor organizations.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6045&Year=2025&Initiative=false