Washington legislature considers "secure planning" for employees across the state

by Kellee Azar, KATU News

VANCOUVER, Washington. – Changes in the way Washington workers set their schedules and shift shifts may soon happen.

The Washington legislature plans to establish a "secure schedule" for employees across the state.

Senate Bill 57-17 would require employers to post their schedules two weeks in advance.

The law would affect workers in many businesses, including retail, fast food and full service. A similar law is already in effect in Seattle.

Simone Barron, who works in Seattle, says the problem is not related to advance planning. Instead, it's flexibility.

"We do not want that. We never asked for that, "she said.

Under the law, employers should pay extra when they change shifts with another employee.

"There are many ways for people with full service to manipulate their schedules to create a balance between work and private life and with a secure or restrictive schedule, you can not do it to create a work-life balance. personal, "said Barron.

She explained that because of these penalties, employers are less likely to approve schedule changes.

Sage Wilson of Working Washington supports the bill and says employees deserve to be compensated.

"A flexible employee who helps ensure that the work of this company is worth a little more," she said.