SPOKANE, Wash. — Washington’s 2026 legislative session kicked off today, with the budget being a primary concern. Governor Ferguson presented his supplemental budget proposal late last year to address a $1.6 billion shortfall.
However, concerns have been raised by long-term caregivers, worried that those in long-term care could lose their insurance and caregivers.
Local union SEIU took to the streets of Spokane to protest these potential cuts. SEIU represents 60,000 care workers across Washington, Alaska and Montana.
In a press release, the union acknowledged “difficult decisions” must be made due to the budget deficit and changes in the federal budget.
However, they are joining with caregivers across the state to protest further cuts.
Several protestors emphasized their role in ensuring everyone’s safety, particularly when no family is available, warning that cuts could pose a serious health risk.
“What would you do if it was you and you didn’t have a daughter or a family member who lived close enough to care for you,” SEIU member Julia Sparkman said. “That’s where people like me come in and ensure that their needs are met in a way that keeps them safe.”
The cuts could leave clients without insurance and access to a professional.
Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pederson stated that healthcare is a priority this session, although the budget remains a significant consideration.
“We’re going to be working very hard on trying to undo the damage that the federal government has done to the stability of the health care system,” Pederson said. “I think one of the reasons that we’ve been so effective in controlling health care expenses in our state is the dramatic progress that we have made on lowering the rate of uninsured people making sure that people are getting their health-care from a primary care provider and not in the emergency room.”
SEIU noted that Governor Ferguson’s proposal would restore care to 500 of the 3,000 individuals cut under the federal budget bill. However, they also said that 2,500 people would lose long-term care under this proposal.
