Care worker unions finish pay raise talks

Unionized state workers weren't the only ones to wrap up negotiations with the governor last week. Large groups of state-paid service providers also concluded talks, with similar results.

Agency update for Oct. 6

• John Fraire of Pullman has been appointed to the Arts Commission. The commission promotes the growth and development of the arts in the state, advises state agencies and officials on matters pertaining to the arts, and administers appropriations set aside for acquiring works of art for public buildings.

State worker briefs for Oct. 6

• Program gets award for sustainability
• Four health agencies sign mutual-aid pact
• State posts crisis information on Web

Prison workers lack contract

As the clock ticked down Wednesday night, state prison employees were headed for two years without a contract, possibly meaning no raises.

Largest state worker union OKs deal

The largest state worker union Monday approved a two-year deal that includes annual raises of 2 percent, plus an extra day off each year.

Devices widen communication options

You've seen it a hundred times on futuristic television shows and movies: a person talking to someone far away via video screen.

State worker briefs for Sept. 29

• New leader named for water project
• Internet streamlines Agriculture checks

Management award honorees

• NOTE: The Olympian is profiling each of this year's winners of the Governor's Award for Leadership in Management. The accolade has changed over the past 20 years, but it remains one of the most prestigious awards in state government.

Legislators might revisit state worker contracts

Even before state workers have approved them, legislators are talking about changing the contracts that unions negotiated with Gov. Chris Gregoire.

Collective bargaining ends to mixed reviews among unions

As this year's round of negotiations for state workers unions wraps up, leaders are wondering whether the collective bargaining system is living up to its promise.