STATE GOVERNMENT
‘Union Effect’ in Washington: Higher wages, better benefits
The report finds that workers covered by a union contract in Washington state, on average, earn 7.2 percent more than comparable non-union workers — or an additional $3,500 per year.
In addition, Washington unions contribute to economic justice by reducing the gaps for workers facing race and gender discrimination, especially in low-wage jobs. According to the report:
► Workers of color in Washington who are union members earn 6 percent more — 10 percent more in lower-wage jobs — and have a 21 percent greater likelihood of health insurance coverage and a 45 percent greater likelihood of pension coverage.
► Immigrant workers in unions have a 43 percent greater likelihood of health insurance and a 77 percent greater likelihood of pension coverage.
The “Union Effect” report demonstrates how unions positively impact Washington state’s economy and worker well-being by raising statewide earnings by an estimated $1.83 billion annually, and by ensuring 94,000 more workers have health care insurance and 142,000 more are enrolled in employment-based retirement plans.