WA HB2630

Beginning January 1, 2028, the Director of Financial Management may not adopt any classification plan for state employees unless it has been negotiated with the appropriate employee organization representing classified employees.

Appointing authorities and employee organizations may jointly request the director to initiate a classification study for positions in the classified service.

Beginning January 1, 2028, benchmark descriptions and job classifications used by the Office of Financial Management for salary surveys become mandatory subjects of collective bargaining.

Negotiations over benchmark descriptions and job classifications must be conducted between the employer and a coalition of all bargaining representatives representing specific classifications.

Amends RCW 41.06.157 (state classification plan requirements) and RCW 41.80.020 (collective bargaining matters) to expand union involvement in determining how state jobs are classified and compared for salary purposes.