EMPLOYEE RIGHTS

Public employees in Washington State have the right to organize for the purpose of collective bargaining. Employees have certain rights from the date a petition is filed until certification or case closure.

As an employee you have the right to:

• form, join, or assist labor or employee organizations.
• bargain collectively through a representative of your choice.
• refuse to pay dues to a union unless you have affirmatively agreed to make such payments.

During organizing, the employer or union cannot attempt to influence an employee's choice of representation by:

• threatening with loss of jobs or benefits, physical force, or violence.
• discharging employees in connection with union activity.
• improperly promising benefits of wages, hours, or working conditions.
• misstating important facts when the other party does not have a fair chance to reply.
• forcing employees to attend or listen to a campaign speech in the period beginning 24 hours before the election period opens through the election date.
• suggesting that the Commission or its procedures favor any choice.

If you believe your rights have been violated, you may contact our office at info@perc.wa.gov or 360-570-7300.