Saldaña Proposes Labor Rights For Farm Workers Legislation

Washington state senator Rebecca Saldaña introduced legislation last week giving agricultural workers statewide the explicit right to organize and negotiate their working conditions through the Public Employment Relations Commission.

The Seattle Democrat says key provisions in Senate Bill 6045 include:

• Collective bargaining rights: Agricultural workers would gain meaningful new abilities to secure agreements regarding wages, hours, and working conditions without interference or intimidation.
• Support for seasonal and limited-English proficient workers: Requires procedures that are quick, culturally competent, and accessible in workers’ languages.
• Fair representation: Establishes clear processes for certifying exclusive bargaining representatives and resolving disputes between employers and employees, including mediation and arbitration.
• Protection against unlawful practices: Employers would be prohibited from coercing, intimidating, or interfering with workers’ rights to organize, with enforcement through PERC and Washington courts.
• Preserves the right to strike: Agricultural workers retain the ability to strike without interference.  

"Ag Workers Face Unique Challenges"

“This bill is about fairness, dignity, and giving farmworkers a seat at the table,” said Saldaña, chair of the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee. “For too long, agricultural workers have faced unique challenges that make it difficult to organize and advocate for themselves. This bill ensures these workers have the same fundamental labor protections and collective bargaining rights as workers in other industries.”  

Saldaña added SB 6045 will help remove barriers farm workers face, strengthen protections, improves workplace conditions, and foster more equitable labor relations across the state.

The Washington legislative session started Monday January 12th.

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