State Economy

Making Washington's economy work for everyone.

Despite strong growth in overall economic productivity over the past decade, the majority of Washington's working families have not shared in the economic wealth they have helped create. While a few at the top have prospered, for most wages have stagnated and benefits slipped away. The job market remains as segregated by gender today as it was twenty years ago, and women continue to earn far less than men.

Today it is more important than ever we ensure economic growth is founded on broad-based prosperity, so economic security and opportunity are available to all. New public policies are needed to match the changes on our economy, including access to health care, paid family leave and paid sick days, retirement security, and a social safety net.

Featured Publications

Creating jobs and boosting our economy

01.14.2010 | Washington State is losing an estimated 44,000 private and public sector jobs due to billions of dollars in state budget cuts in 2009 – and further cuts could axe another 33,600. By contrast, a combination of new state taxes and federal aid to fill the state’s budget gap could save up to 30,000 jobs.

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The State of Working Washington 2009: The path out of recession and into prosperity for Washington's families

12.01.2009 | An analysis of Washington’s economy reveals that many hallmarks of middle-class life have become increasingly unattainable for local families. The State of Working Washington 2009 examines these and other economic trends, and offers an agenda eo ensure economic prosperity for the people of Washington State.

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Washington's Working Women: Not equal yet

03.30.2009 | Women’s earnings are essential to economic security for the majority of families in Washington State, where women comprise about half of all workers. But over the past two decades, forward progress for women in the workforce has largely stalled.Full Report »