In Olympia, we believe in taking care of one another—and that means making sure working people have what they need to live, thrive, and contribute to a strong, vibrant community. After encouraging the City Council to move forward on this issue, it became clear that a timely path forward wasn’t in sight. So, in the spirit of community action, we’re moving ahead with a citizens’ ballot initiative to bring the Workers’ Bill of Rights directly to the people.
Signature collection began in March, and momentum is growing every day. You’ll find us at events, in neighborhoods, and all across Olympia through the end of June. Our goal: collect 10,000 signatures to qualify for the November ballot—and we’re well on our way.
What Is the Workers’ Bill of Rights?
This proposal is all about creating a better balance—ensuring that people who work in Olympia can also afford to live here, support their families, and plan their lives with greater stability. It sets fair standards for wages, scheduling, opportunity, and safety.
Here’s what it includes:
Wages Closer to a Living Wage
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Large employers (500+ workers): $20/hour immediately, with annual increases tied to inflation
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Medium employers (15–499 workers): $17/hour, rising each year until they match large employers in 3 years
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Small businesses (under 15 workers): $17/hour, with a gradual 6-year phase-in
Fair and Predictable Scheduling (for medium and large employers)
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Work schedules must be posted at least 14 days in advance
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Additional pay for changes within that 2-week window
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Workers can decline “clopening” shifts (those with less than 10 hours between them), or receive extra pay if they choose to work them
Path to Full-Time Hours
Employers must offer additional hours to current part-time staff before hiring new employees—helping workers who want more hours reach full-time.
Safe Workplaces for Large Retail Workers
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Clear safety plans and staffing guidelines
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Panic buttons for emergency response
A Community Effort with Broad Support
What makes this effort truly special is how many people are coming together to support it. From small businesses to labor groups, nonprofits, and community organizations, there’s a growing belief that this kind of thoughtful policy can help make Olympia more affordable, equitable, and supportive for everyone.
Let’s Work Together
This campaign is rooted in care—for workers, for families, and for the future of our city. It’s about making sure Olympia remains a welcoming, inclusive place where people can build a life.
We’re looking for volunteers to help gather signatures, host conversations, and spread the word. If you’d like to be part of this effort, reach out to Laura at Lchristensen@ufcw367.org—we’d love to connect with you.
Together, we can pass the Workers’ Bill of Rights and help build a stronger, more supportive Olympia for all.
A New Chapter: Open Bargaining Begins April 15
United Food and Commercial Workers Local 367, the union proudly leading the push for the Workers’ Bill of Rights, is also taking a bold new step in another area: how contracts are negotiated. On April 15, UFCW 367 will begin open bargaining for the very first time.
UFCW 367 is leading the charge on these efforts because they believe that union work goes beyond the shop floor. It’s not just about taking care of their members on the job—it’s about improving the lives of the whole person: their families, their friends, and the communities they live in. Whether through stronger workplace protections or forward-thinking citywide policies like the Workers’ Bill of Rights, the union is committed to building a better future for everyone.
Open bargaining reflects that commitment. It’s a transparent and inclusive process that flips the traditional, closed-door model of contract negotiations on its head. Instead of limiting conversations to a few individuals behind the scenes, open bargaining brings the process into the light.
This approach strengthens accountability, builds worker power, and sends a clear message to employers: workers are not alone. They are part of a broader movement that values fairness, dignity, and respect in the workplace and beyond.
As UFCW 367 takes this next step, they’re continuing to demonstrate what leadership rooted in community and solidarity looks like—making meaningful change not just for union members, but for working people across Olympia.
Let’s keep building together—from the bargaining table to the ballot box.
Laura Christensen is Executive Board Vice President #4 of UFCW Local 367
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