‘I personally feel betrayed’: Gov. Bob Ferguson’s furlough plan leaves unions angry

To address a budget deficit, Washington Governor Bob Ferguson proposed furloughing state government workers one day a month and eliminating teacher bonuses. Now, he’s facing stiff resistance from unions, according to The Washington State Standard, in part, because he didn’t consult with the union ahead of the decision.

“They feel they were lied to. We have to stop being the ones having the budgets balanced on our backs,” Mike Yestramski, president of the Washington Federation of State Employees, said at a Monday rally.

Speakers and rallygoers expressed their anger and disappointment with Governor Ferguson.

Brendy Fountaine, a United Auto Workers Local 4121 member from Tukwila, said of the cuts to the union worktime, “I personally feel betrayed.” She recalled trying to help Ferguson get elected. “I was spending hours of my time calling up people I didn’t know to talk up Bob for governor.”

Here’s how Governor Ferguson wants to save money

According to the governor’s office, the furloughs will save $300 million over the next two years. It’s part of a total of $4 billion in spending cuts.

“Our state faces a historic budget shortfall,” Ferguson said in a news release. “This challenge demands thoughtful leadership and a commitment to fiscal responsibility. My team and I have scoured state spending for savings and efficiencies. We must prioritize while protecting the core needs of Washingtonians.”

The governor is proposing reductions in government spending that he said do not directly impact vital services. One example his office used was closing a warehouse used for supplies during the COVID pandemic. Ending that lease saves $4.4 million over four years.

It’s all still up to the state legislature

Brionna Aho, the governor’s communications director, noted that the governor’s proposals are only intended as guidance for legislative budget writers, who ultimately decide what is included in the final budget.

State Sen. Noel Frame (D-Seattle) said at Monday’s rally that unions would ultimately be pleased with the upcoming budget.

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