SINCE TIM EYMAN slashed car tabs to $30, local governments have been strapped to keep up with our state’s growing transportation needs.

The move has meant fewer jobs for our members and less money for wages and benefits. The restriction also hampers the economy by limiting responsible growth.

Now a bill (ESHB 1858), sponsored by Rep. Bill Fromhold (D-Vancouver) will allow local government councils to add an additional $20 to fund Transportation Benefit Districts that would boost local and regional transportation needs.

Health system funded

Our state’s local government health system also took a big hit when Eyman’s I-695 passed. The Legislature voted $20 million in addition to the current backfilling money to help fund health districts.

The funding is insufficient to meet the growing needs of our system, but will provide help. Karen Kaiser (D-Des Moines) sponsored the measure (E2SSB).

Negotiation time extended

SB 5251 will allow local government bargaining units to negotiate contracts for up to six years. The current limit is three years.

The Senate Chair of the Labor and Commerce Committee sponsored this bill with a bipartisan list of senators. The measure will provide unions and employers a voluntary option to enter into longer agreements if they see it as beneficial.