As reported last issue, Governor Gregoire's proposed budget included the Projected Unit Credit method to fund the pension system. Although the PUC method can't be described as a "raid" on our pension fund, it does represent risky "pay less now to pay a lot more later" scheme that puts our system at risk.

Members are encouraged to contact their legislators and tell them to oppose the PUC method and fully fund our pension system.

HB 1847 (Sponsored by Representative Huigh)

SB 5844 (Sponsored by Senator Tom, Brandland, Fraser and Shin)

SB 5228 (Sponsored by Senators Haugen and Morton).

HB 1947 — This bill allows cities to create a street utility option to raise revenue for local improvements.These bills would increase the dollar limits and allow more construction work to be performed by local government employees. All these bills are in The Rules Committee and members are encouraged to call their representatives and senators and ask them to move the bills to the floor for a final vote.

HB 1722 (Sponsored by Representatives Crouse, Conway, Seaquist and Simpson)

This bill changes the default provision for new employees who don't choose a plan within 90 days from Plan 3 to Plan 2. Currently about 17 percent of new hires are having their retirement funds invested in the stock market without their authorization. Members are encouraged to call their represenatives and ask that the bill be moved from the Rules Committee and to the floor for a final vote.

Tim Eyman, our favorite for-profit initiative sponsor is at it again with Initiative 1033. Paid signature gatherers are out promising "lower property taxes" at a time when local governments are in the worst economic shape in decades. Please pass the word that signing this petition will further erode our communities' ability to address public services.

Please click here and here to learn what you can do to stop Eyman's destructive measure.