Investigations
A WA worker’s death reveals the limits of safety enforcement
A fatal trench collapse in 2016 set precedent for holding employers criminally liable, but officials still struggle to head off repeat violations.
Lizz Giordano
Multimedia journalist Lizz Giordano frequently reports on workplace safety, labor organizing and worker rights. Reach her at lizz.giordano@cascadepbs.org.
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News
Starbucks baristas in Prosser affirm union vote after ‘challenge’
Starbucks baristas in Prosser recommitted to unionization last week after the company challenged a September vote in which three-fourths
Investigations
With 3 recent wins, Starbucks union gains traction in Eastern WA
Reduced hours and dwindling benefits spur baristas to action as a small Prosser cafe becomes the 27th in the state to vote to unionize.
Investigations
Sound Transit settles whistleblower case over safety complaints
The former employee alleged that supervisors retaliated against him for raising concerns about repair records and other safeguards.
Investigations
A new WA law may not cure hospital staff shortages, nurses say
Local committees will still set nurse/patient ratios amid new state oversight, but workers argue the current complaint system falls short.