Attention L&I interpreters!
As of this morning, the third union representation election for L&I interpreters is now officially underway, and we couldn’t be more excited. We’re hearing from interpreters around the state who are realizing that WFSE doesn’t have our best interests at heart and are ready to cast their votes for WA INTERPRETERS.
As the union that initiated the union election process and the only independent union on the ballot composed entirely of L&I providers, we hope you’ll stand with us as we fight for the right to improve our jobs and have a say in the L&I interpreting system!
Here’s everything you need to know to cast your vote.
1. How do I vote?
PERC has mailed eligible L&I interpreters a voter information letter containing a personal identification number (PIN).
The PIN allows you to vote online at perc-li-lap.isivote.com or over the phone at 1-866-214-0186.
2. What if I haven’t received the voter information letter in the mail?
PERC has already mailed out the voter information letters. However, the list they’re using is out-of-date, so some interpreters may not receive voting instructions in the mail.
If you haven’t already received the voter information letter, contact PERC and request your PIN right away.
You can call PERC’s voter help line at (360) 570-7303 and ask for your PIN. The help line’s hours of operation are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If no one answers, be sure to leave a voicemail with your name and phone number so they can call you back.
You can also request your PIN from PERC by emailing info@perc.wa.gov
Be prepared to provide PERC with your full name, mailing address, daytime telephone number, and the date of your most recent L&I appointment.
3. Will anyone know how I vote?
No. Voting is by secret-ballot. State law prevents PERC from disclosing how you vote to anyone. Based on our investigations after the previous elections, we have no reason to believe that WFSE or interpretingWorks is able to tell how people vote, though they may want to give you that impression to try and influence how you vote.
4. What if I’m no longer taking L&I appointments?
As long as you have worked at least one L&I appointment since January 1, 2019, you are eligible to vote.
5. What if I don’t vote?
No matter what happens, one of the two unions is going to be certified to represent L&I interpreters in negotiations over pay and working conditions with the State of Washington. You may as well vote for the choice you think is best.
6. When does the election end?
Thursday, April 20, 2023, at 9 a.m.
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