State Workers Strike Over Pay and Budget | Spokane News

Thousands of Washington state workers walked off the job in a major strike, part of a months-long standoff over stagnant wages and rising costs. Over 52,000 union members across agencies, colleges, and hospitals staged more than 100 walkouts statewide — including 14 in Spokane County. Employees like Terry Nesbitt voiced frustration over paltry pay raises that can’t keep up with soaring gas and grocery prices, while retired workers rallied behind them, calling the state’s 2% offer inadequate. Union leaders argue budget cuts and heavier workloads have left staff underpaid and overburdened, risking service breakdowns. The governor’s office admits tough choices amid billions in cuts and looming federal reductions, stressing the need to protect vulnerable populations without sacrificing essential services. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a531140afa416977