"There is a ballot initiative being presented by the large industries of Washington State in the next election cycle that could divide a worker’s overall notion of how they feel politically and what is in their own personal best interest. It is in regards to workers compensation and the fate of theWashington State Department of Labor and Industries.
"The Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW) introduced Initiative 1082. The BIAW is a conservative organization who “fight against” government on behalf of private industry. They are specifically geared to improving the profit of the building industry through deregulation, much like what happened with the banking industry in the early 2000’s, which resulted in a global economic collapse.
"Their intent with I-1082 is to privatize workers compensation insurance in Washington state. In theory this would bring down premiums due to competition, or that’s what many who promote privatization contend. Others who back this initiative say that this would allow employers more choice on their workers compensation plans and thus be able to better protect their workers.
"With help of private donation from Washington businesses large and small, the BIAW spent about $500,000 to put the I-1082 on the ballot. This initiative was also largely backed by those who would reap the profits from it, the insurance companies. Liberty Mutual, the new corporate parent of Safeco, has given $300,000 to the campaign, a mere drop in the bucket compared to the expected profit to be had if the initiative passes.
The Complete Ballot Initiative: http://tinyurl.com/2bb8xyl
..........For over 3 decades the Law Offices of Jon L. Gelman 1.973.696.7900 jon@gelmans.com have been representing injured workers and their families who have suffered occupational exposures.
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