State Workers

State budget year begins with 3,200 jobs on the block

Many state agencies are keeping employees on the payroll a bit longer as Washington’s government starts a new budget year today with 3,200 jobs on the chopping block.

Agencies don't need merger, says director

The state Department of Retirement Systems and the Health Care Authority don’t need to merge, said Steve Hill, who has been the director of both agencies for four months.

DSHS' Lindeblad named to national leadership course

MaryAnne Lindeblad, head of the Division of Healthcare Services in the Department of Social and Health Services, is one of six Medicaid directors chosen nationally to participate in the inaugural class of a Medicaid Leadership Institute.

State health plans may get big hike

Some state workers likely will take a serious financial hit next year, when some health-care co-payments and deductibles are expected to double.

Parks closes Auburn office

The State Parks and Recreation Commission will close its Puget Sound Region Office in Auburn July 1, going from four regions to three in an effort to streamline operations and save on costs to meet state budget reductions.

Pension plans took hit, report says

The oldest state pensions, already underfunded, were rocked by a worldwide crash in investment markets last year.

State workers' insurer needs cash to reach reserve

Lawmakers knew they probably weren’t giving state employees enough to keep up with rising health insurance costs this year, but they thought they at least were giving them something.

State workers shun furloughs

Employees of states from Hawaii to Wisconsin have been asked to take time off without pay.

Revenue names honored employees

Recipients of the Washington State Department of Revenue annual Employee Recognition Awards were announced this week.

DOR's Smith wins national recognition

Two national tax administration organizations have recognized state Department of Revenue employee Tremaine Smith for his leadership in improving tax administration through interstate cooperation.