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Chapter 391-45 WAC

Last Update: 11/16/22

UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE CASE RULES

WAC Sections

HTMLPDF391-45-001Scope—Contents—Other rules.
HTMLPDF391-45-010Complaint charging unfair labor practices—Who may file.
HTMLPDF391-45-030ComplaintFiling and service.
HTMLPDF391-45-050Contents of complaint filing formsContents of complaint.
HTMLPDF391-45-070Amendment.
HTMLPDF391-45-090Withdrawal.
HTMLPDF391-45-110Deficiency noticeCause of action statementDeferral to arbitration.
HTMLPDF391-45-130Examiner—Who may act.
HTMLPDF391-45-170Notice of hearing.
HTMLPDF391-45-190Answer—Filing and service.
HTMLPDF391-45-210Answer—Contents—Amendment—Effect of failure to answer.
HTMLPDF391-45-250Motion to make complaint more definite and detailed.
HTMLPDF391-45-260Settlement mediation.
HTMLPDF391-45-270Hearings—Reopening of hearing.
HTMLPDF391-45-290Posthearing briefs.
HTMLPDF391-45-310Motions for discretionary reviewExaminer decisions.
HTMLPDF391-45-330Withdrawal or modification of examiner decision.
HTMLPDF391-45-350Appeals.
HTMLPDF391-45-390Commission action on appeals.
HTMLPDF391-45-410Unfair labor practice remedies—Back pay.
HTMLPDF391-45-430Motion for temporary relief.
HTMLPDF391-45-550Collective bargainingAgency determines mandatory subjects.
DISPOSITION OF SECTIONS FORMERLY CODIFIED IN THIS TITLE
391-45-002Sequence and numbering of rules—Special provisions. [Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.58.065, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.120, and 49.39.060. WSR 12-05-066, § 391-45-002, filed 2/15/12, effective 3/17/12. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.120, and 49.39.060. WSR 10-20-172, § 391-45-002, filed 10/6/10, effective 11/6/10. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 41.06.340, 41.76.060. WSR 03-03-064, § 391-45-002, filed 1/14/03, effective 2/14/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050. WSR 01-14-009, § 391-45-002, filed 6/22/01, effective 8/1/01; WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-002, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110 and chapters 28B.52, 41.56, 41.58, 41.59 and 53.18 RCW. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-002, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 34.04.022, 41.58.050, 41.56.090, 41.59.110 and 28B.52.080. WSR 83-24-034 (Order 83-04), § 391-45-002, filed 12/1/83, effective 1/1/84. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-002, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.] Repealed by WSR 22-23-101, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060.
391-45-013Special provision—Academic employees. [Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-013, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.] Repealed by WSR 88-12-056 (Order 88-05), filed 5/31/88. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.58.050, 41.56.090 and 41.59.110.
391-45-019Special provision—Private sector employees. [Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110 and 49.08.020. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-019, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-019, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.] Repealed by WSR 22-23-101, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060.
391-45-056Special provision—State civil service employees. [Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 41.06.340, 41.76.060. WSR 03-03-064, § 391-45-056, filed 1/14/03, effective 2/14/03.] Repealed by WSR 08-04-059, filed 1/31/08, effective 4/1/08.
391-45-150Authority of examiner. [Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-150, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.] Repealed by WSR 83-24-034 (Order 83-04), filed 12/1/83, effective 1/1/84. Statutory Authority: RCW 34.04.022, 41.58.050, 41.56.090, 41.59.110 and 28B.52.080.
391-45-171Special provision—Public employees. [Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-171, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.] Repealed by WSR 86-11-054 (Order 86-01), filed 5/20/86. Statutory Authority: RCW 34.04.033 [34.04.022], 41.58.050, 41.56.090 and 41.59.110.
391-45-230Amendment of answer. [Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.170, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-230, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-230, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.] Repealed by WSR 00-14-048, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050.
391-45-370Filing and service of cross-petition for review. [Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.180, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-370, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-370, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.] Repealed by WSR 98-14-112, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110 and 41.58.050.
391-45-394Special provision—Marine employees. [Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050 and 41.58.065. WSR 12-05-066, § 391-45-394, filed 2/15/12, effective 3/17/12.] Repealed by WSR 22-23-101, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060.
391-45-431Special provision—Public employees. [Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110 and 41.56.190. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-431, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-431, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.] Repealed by WSR 96-07-105, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050 and 41.56.160.
391-45-552Special provision—Educational employees. [Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050 and 41.59.120. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-552, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-552, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 81-02-034 (Order 81-01), § 391-45-552, filed 1/6/81.] Repealed by WSR 22-23-101, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060.


PDF391-45-001

ScopeContentsOther rules.

This chapter governs unfair labor practice proceedings under all chapters of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) administered by the agency. To the extent these rules of practice and procedure differ from the model rules in chapter 10-08 WAC or this agency's general rules of practice and procedure in chapter 391-08 WAC, these special rules prevail.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-001, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 41.06.340, 41.76.060. WSR 03-03-064, § 391-45-001, filed 1/14/03, effective 2/14/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050. WSR 01-14-009, § 391-45-001, filed 6/22/01, effective 8/1/01; WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-001, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-001, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110 and chapters 28B.52, 41.56, 41.58, 41.59 and 53.18 RCW. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-001, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-001, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-010

Complaint charging unfair labor practicesWho may file.

A complaint charging that an employer or employee organization has engaged in or is engaging in an unfair labor practice may be filed by any employee, employee organization, employer, or their agents.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-010, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 41.56.040, 41.58.040, 41.59.060 and 53.18.015. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-010, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-010, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-010, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-030

ComplaintFiling and service.

A complaint charging unfair labor practices may be filed through the agency's online e-filing system, by email, or in writing to the agency's Olympia office, as required by WAC 391-08-120 (1) and (2). The party filing the complaint shall serve a copy on each party named as a respondent, as required by WAC 391-08-120 (3) and (4).
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-030, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 34.05.413, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-030, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-030, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-030, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.170, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-030, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-030, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-050

Contents of complaint filing formsContents of complaint.

(1) Each completed unfair labor practice complaint filing form, whether obtained from the agency's website or through the agency's e-filing system, must include all of the following:
(a) Information identifying the parties and their representatives (if known), including:
(i) The name, email address, mailing address, and telephone number of the employer and of the employer's representative;
(ii) The name, email address, mailing address, address and telephone number of the entity (employer or employee organization) accused of committing unfair labor practices (the respondent) and of the respondent's representative; and
(iii) The name, email address, mailing address, and telephone number of the party filing the complaint (the complainant) and of the complainant's representative.
(b) Information concerning the parties' relationships, including:
(i) Identification of the employer department or division where the dispute arose; and
(ii) The parties' contractual relationship, indicating that:
(A) The parties have never had a contract; or
(B) The parties have had a contract, and a copy of the currentor most recent collective bargaining agreement is attached.
(c) Job titles of bargaining unit employees who are the subject of the complaint.
(d) The name, signature, and title, if any, of the person filing the complaint as well as the date of the signature.
(e) Any other information requested in the unfair labor practice complaint filing form found on the agency's website at www.perc.wa.gov or as required through the agency's e-filing system.
(2) Each complaint must contain in separate numbered paragraphs:
(a) Clear and concise statements of the facts constituting the alleged unfair labor practices, including the times, dates, and places of occurrences and the names of the participants; and
(b) A statement of the remedy sought by the complainant.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-050, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 34.05.413, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-050, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-050, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.170, 41.56.180, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-050, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-050, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-070

Amendment.

(1) A complaint may be amended upon motion made by the complainant if:
(a) The proposed amendment only involves the same parties as the original complaint;
(b) The proposed amendment is timely under any statutory limitation as to new facts;
(c) The subject matter of the proposed amendment is germane to the subject matter of the complaint as originally filed or previously amended; and
(d) Granting the amendment will not cause undue delay of the proceedings.
(2) A motion to amend a complaint is subject to the following limitations:
(a) Before the appointment of an examiner, amendment is freely allowed upon motion;
(b) After the appointment of an examiner but before the opening of a hearing, amendment may be allowed upon motion to the examiner and subject to due process requirements;
(c) After the opening of a hearing, amendment may only be allowed to conform the pleadings to evidence received without objection, upon motion made before the close of the hearing.
(3) If a motion for amendment is denied, the proposed amendment will be processed as a separate case.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-070, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.073, 41.56.140, 41.56.150, 41.56.170, 41.59.140 and 53.18.015. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-070, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-070, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-070, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-090

Withdrawal.

(1) A complaint may be withdrawn by the complainant through an email to the examiner or by a written request filed as required by WAC 391-08-120 before issuance of a decision by an examiner.
(2) A withdrawal "without prejudice" does not vary any statutory time limitation for filing of unfair labor practice complaints.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-090, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.073, 41.56.140, 41.56.150, 41.59.140 and 53.18.015. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-090, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-090, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-090, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-110

Deficiency noticeCause of action statementDeferral to arbitration.

The executive director, the executive director's designee, or an examiner shall determine whether the facts alleged in the complaint may constitute an unfair labor practice within the meaning of the applicable statute.
(1) If the facts alleged do not, as a matter of law, constitute a violation, a deficiency notice identifying the defects and specifying a due date for the filing and service of an amended complaint will be issued and served on all parties. If the defects are not cured within 21 days, an order dismissing the defective allegation(s) and stating the reasons for that action must be issued and served on all parties. Unless appealed to the commission under WAC 391-45-350, an order of dismissal issued under this subsection is the final order of the agency on the defective allegation(s) with the same force and effect as if issued by the commission.
(2) If one or more allegations state a cause of action for unfair labor practice proceedings before the agency, a cause of action statement summarizing the allegation(s) will be issued and served on all parties.
(a) A cause of action statement forwarding a case for further proceedings is an interim order that may only be appealed to the commission by a notice of appeal filed after issuance of an examiner decision under WAC 391-45-310(2).
(b) The cause of action statement limits the cause(s) of action before an examiner and the commission. A complainant who claims that the cause of action statement failed to address one or more causes of action the complainant sought to advance in the complaint may, before the issuance of a notice of hearing, seek clarification from the person who issued the cause of action statement.
(c) The cause of action statement must establish the due date for the respondent to file its answer.
(3) The agency may defer the processing of allegations which state a cause of action under subsection (2) of this section pending the outcome of related contractual dispute resolution procedures, but the agency retains jurisdiction over those allegations.
(a) Deferral to arbitration may be ordered if:
(i) Employer conduct alleged to constitute an unlawful unilateral change of employee wages, hours, or working conditions is arguably protected or prohibited by a collective bargaining agreement in effect between the parties at the time of the alleged unilateral change;
(ii) The parties' collective bargaining agreement provides for final and binding arbitration of grievances concerning its interpretation or application; and
(iii) There are no procedural impediments to a determination on the merits of the contractual issue through proceedings under the contractual dispute resolution procedure.
(b) Processing of the unfair labor practice allegations under this chapter must be resumed following issuance of an arbitration award or resolution of the grievance, and the contract interpretation made in the contractual proceedings is considered binding, except if:
(i) The contractual procedures were not conducted in a fair and orderly manner; or
(ii) The contractual procedures have reached a result that is repugnant to the purposes and policies of the applicable collective bargaining statute.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-110, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080. WSR 08-04-059, § 391-45-110, filed 1/31/08, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 28B.52.073, 34.05.419, 41.56.140, 41.56.150 and 41.59.140. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-110, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-110, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-110, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.140, 41.56.150, 41.59.140 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-110, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-110, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-130

ExaminerWho may act.

The executive director or designee shall assign an examiner to conduct further proceedings in the matter and shall notify the parties of that assignment. Upon notice to all parties, an examiner may be substituted for the examiner previously assigned.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-130, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-130, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-130, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.160, 41.56.170 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-130, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-130, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-170

Notice of hearing.

The notice of hearing will be issued and served on the parties. A copy of the cause of action statement issued under WAC 391-45-110 must be attached to the notice of hearing. A notice of hearing may be amended or withdrawn before the close of the hearing.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-170, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 34.05.434, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-170, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-170, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.170, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-170, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-170, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-190

AnswerFiling and service.

An answer to a complaint charging unfair labor practices must be in writing. The respondent shall file and serve its answer as required by WAC 391-08-120.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-190, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-190, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-190, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-190, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.170, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-190, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-190, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-210

AnswerContentsAmendmentEffect of failure to answer.

(1) An answer filed by a respondent must specifically admit, deny, or explain each fact alleged in the portions of a complaint found to state a cause of action under WAC 391-45-110. A statement by a respondent that it is without knowledge of an alleged fact operates as a denial. An answer must assert any affirmative defenses that are claimed to exist.
(2) Counterclaims by a respondent against a complainant must be filed and processed as separate cases, subject to procedures for consolidation of proceedings.
(3) Motions to amend answers must be acted upon by the examiner, subject to the following limitations:
(a) Amendment is allowed if a motion to amend the complaint has been granted;
(b) Amendment may be allowed prior to the opening of a hearing, subject to due process requirements;
(c) After the opening of a hearing, amendment may only be allowed to conform the pleadings to evidence received without objection, upon motion made before the close of the hearing.
(4) If a respondent fails to file a timely answer or to specifically deny or explain a fact alleged in the complaint, the facts alleged in the complaint are deemed to be admitted as true, and the respondent is deemed to have waived its right to a hearing as to the facts so admitted. A motion for acceptance of an answer after its due date may be granted for good cause, unless the complainant can show that it would be prejudiced by such action in accordance with WAC 391-08-003.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-210, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.073, 41.56.170, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-210, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-210, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-210, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-250

Motion to make complaint more definite and detailed.

The examiner may direct that the complaint be made more definite and detailed, upon motion of the respondent, if the examiner is satisfied that the complaint is so indefinite as to hamper the respondent in the preparation of its answer.
(1) The respondent shall file its motion by the date specified for the filing of an answer. The motion must be filed and served as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(2) The filing of a motion under this section extends the due date for the respondent's answer until a date set by the examiner.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-250, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-250, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-250, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.170, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-250, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-250, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-260

Settlement mediation.

A settlement mediation concerning substantive issues may be held under WAC 10-08-200(15).
(1) A different case number is assigned, and all documents for the settlement mediation are kept in a case separate from the documents in the unfair labor practice proceedings.
(2) An agency staff member other than the assigned examiner is assigned to explore settlement between the parties on the substantive issues.
(3) A settlement mediation may be held at any time before issuance of a decision by an examiner in the underlying unfair labor practice proceedings.
(4) During a settlement mediation, the parties will be encouraged, on factual and legal grounds including precedent on the particular subject, to resolve the unfair labor practice dispute.
(5) Participation in a settlement mediation is voluntary and nothing in this rule prohibits parties from exploring settlement on their own. Refusal by a party to participate in a voluntary settlement mediation does not prejudice that party in any manner.
(6) Conversations had and offers made in a settlement mediation are not admissible into evidence at a hearing.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-260, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080. WSR 08-04-059, § 391-45-260, filed 1/31/08, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 34.05.431, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-260, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-260, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.160, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-260, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.58.050, 41.56.090 and 41.59.110. WSR 88-12-056 (Order 88-05), § 391-45-260, filed 5/31/88.]



PDF391-45-270

HearingsReopening of hearing.

(1) Hearings are public, unless a protective order is issued under WAC 10-08-200(7), and are limited to the portions of a complaint found to state a cause of action under WAC 391-45-110.
(a) The complainant is responsible for the presentation of its case and has the burden of proof.
(b) The respondent is responsible for the presentation of its defense and has the burden of proof as to any affirmative defenses.
(2) Once a hearing has been declared closed, it may be reopened only upon the timely motion of a party that discovered new evidence which could not with reasonable diligence have been discovered and produced at the hearing.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-270, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-270, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-270, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.170, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-270, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-270, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-290

Posthearing briefs.

(1) Any party may, upon request made before the close of the hearing, file a posthearing brief.
(2) The examiner may direct the filing of briefs as to any or all of the issues in a case.
(3) Arrangements and due dates for briefs are established by the examiner.
(4) Any brief must be filed and served as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(5) A party filing a brief under this section must limit the brief's total length to 25 pages (double-spaced, 12-point type), unless:
(a) It files and serves a motion for permission to file a longer brief to address novel or complex issues; and
(b) The examiner grants the motion for good cause shown.
(6) A motion for permission to file a longer brief may be made orally to the examiner at the end of the hearing, and the examiner has the authority to orally grant the motion at that time.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-290, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.120. WSR 08-04-058, § 391-45-290, filed 1/31/08, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 34.05.437, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-290, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-290, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-290, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.180, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-290, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-290, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-310

Motions for discretionary reviewExaminer decisions.

(1)(a) A party seeking review by the commission of an interlocutory decision of the executive director, the executive director's designee, or an examiner must file a motion for discretionary review with the commission and a copy with the person who issued the interlocutory decision within seven days after the decision is issued.
(b) Discretionary review of an interlocutory decision issued by the executive director, the executive director's designee, or an examiner will be accepted by the commission only:
(i) If the executive director, the executive director's designee, or the examiner has committed an obvious error that would render further proceedings useless;
(ii) If the executive director, the executive director's designee, or the examiner has committed probable error and the interlocutory decision substantially alters the status quo or substantially limits the freedom of a party to act; or
(iii) If the executive director, the executive director's designee, or the examiner has so far departed from the accepted and usual course of administrative proceedings as to call for immediate review by the commission.
(c) The commission will not accept motions for discretionary review of:
(i) The scope of proceedings issued in a cause of action statement under WAC 391-45-110;
(ii) Application of the six-month statute of limitations; or
(iii) Any evidentiary ruling by an examiner during the course of a hearing.
(d) If a motion for discretionary review is filed, the due date for any response is seven days following the date on which a party wishing to file a response is served with the motion. Responses must be filed and served as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(e) A motion for discretionary review, and any response, should not exceed 15 pages (double-spaced, 12-point type) excluding appendices.
(f) Denial of discretionary review of a decision does not affect the right of a party to obtain later review of the interlocutory decision or the issues pertaining to that decision.
(2) After the close of a hearing and the filing of all briefs, an examiner shall issue a decision containing findings of fact, conclusions of law, and an order. Unless appealed to the commission under WAC 391-45-350, a decision issued under this section is the final order of the agency with the same force and effect as if issued by the commission.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-310, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.120, and 49.39.060. WSR 10-20-172, § 391-45-310, filed 10/6/10, effective 11/6/10. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.120. WSR 08-04-058, § 391-45-310, filed 1/31/08, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-310, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-310, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.180, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-310, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-310, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-330

Withdrawal or modification of examiner decision.

The examiner may set aside, modify, change, or reverse any findings of fact, conclusions of law, or order if any mistake is discovered in the decision.
(1) Action may be taken under this section on the examiner's own motion or on a written motion filed and served by any party as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(2) Action may only be taken under this section within 10 days following issuance of the decision.
(3) This section is inoperative after the filing of an appeal to the commission.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-330, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-330, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-330, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98; WSR 96-07-105, § 391-45-330, filed 3/20/96, effective 4/20/96. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.180, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-330, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-330, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-350

Appeals.

An order issued under WAC 391-45-110(1) or 391-45-310 and any rulings in the proceedings up to the issuance of the order may be appealed to the commission as follows:
(1) The due date for a notice of appeal is 20 days following the date of issuance of the order being appealed. The time for filing a notice of appeal cannot be extended.
(2) If an order has been appealed, the due date for a notice of cross-appeal by other parties is seven days after the last date on which a notice of appeal could be timely. The time for filing a notice of cross-appeal cannot be extended.
(3) A notice of appeal or notice of cross-appeal must identify, in separate numbered paragraphs, the specific rulings, findings of fact, conclusions of law, or orders claimed to be in error.
(4) A party that desires to cite or reassert a document previously filed in the matter must do so by reference to the document already on file and shall not file or attach another copy of the document to documents filed regarding an appeal.
(5) A notice of appeal or notice of cross-appeal must be filed and served as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(6) The due date for any appeal brief that the party filing an appeal or cross-appeal desires to have considered by the commission is 14 days following the filing of its notice of appeal or notice of cross-appeal. Any brief must be filed and served as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(7) The due date for any responsive brief that a party desires to have considered by the commission is 14 days following the date on which that party is served with an appeal brief. Any brief must be filed and served as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(8) The executive director or designee may extend the due date for an appeal brief or responsive brief. Requests to extend the due date may only be considered if made by the date the brief is due and in compliance with WAC 391-08-180. Extensions of time may not be routine or automatic.
(9) A party filing a brief under this section must limit the brief's total length to 25 pages (double-spaced, 12-point type), unless:
(a) It files and serves a motion for permission to file a longer brief to address novel or complex issues raised by the appeal; and
(b) The commission or its designee grants the motion for good cause shown.
(10) Any motion filed under subsection (9) of this section tolls the due date for briefs under subsections (1) and (2) of this section until the commission or its designee responds to the motion.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-350, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080. WSR 08-04-059, § 391-45-350, filed 1/31/08, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 34.05.464, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-350, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-350, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.180, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-350, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 34.04.022, 41.58.050, 41.56.090, 41.59.110 and 28B.52.080. WSR 85-19-059 (Resolution No. 85-01), § 391-45-350, filed 9/16/85. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-350, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-390

Commission action on appeals.

If an order is appealed under WAC 391-45-350, the entire record in the proceedings must be transmitted to the commission. The commission may request the parties to appear before it to make oral argument as to any or all of the issues in the matter. The commission shall, on the basis of the entire record transmitted to it, determine the appeal and issue appropriate orders.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-390, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.065, 34.05.464, 41.56.160 and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-390, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-390, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073, 41.56.180, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-390, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-390, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-410

Unfair labor practice remediesBack pay.

If an unfair labor practice is found to have been committed, the commission or an examiner shall issue a remedial order. In calculating back pay orders, the following applies:
(1) Individuals reinstated to employment with back pay must have deducted from any amount due an amount equal to any earnings the employee may have received during the period of the violation in substitution for the terminated employment, calculated on a quarterly basis.
(2) Individuals reinstated to employment with back pay must have deducted from any amount due an amount equal to any unemployment compensation benefits the employee may have received during the period of the violation, and the employer shall provide evidence to the agency that the deducted amount has been repaid to the Washington state department of employment security as a credit to the benefit record of the employee.
(3) Money amounts due are subject to interest at the rate that would accrue on a civil judgment of the Washington state courts from the date of the violation to the date of payment.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-410, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.073, 41.56.160, 41.59.150 and 53.18.015. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-410, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-410, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-410, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-430

Motion for temporary relief.

In addition to the remedies available under WAC 391-45-410, a complainant in an unfair labor practice proceeding may make a motion requesting that the commission seek appropriate temporary relief through the superior court. All such motions must be processed as provided in this section.
(1) When the complaint is filed, or as soon thereafter as facts giving rise to the request for temporary relief become known, the complainant shall file and serve written notice of its intent to make a motion for temporary relief with the executive director as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(2) Upon the filing of a notice of intent to make a motion for temporary relief, the processing of the matter must be expedited under WAC 391-45-110.
(3) After a determination that the complaint states a cause of action under WAC 391-45-110, the complainant may file and serve, as required by WAC 391-08-120, a motion for temporary relief together with affidavits as to the risk of irreparable harm and the adequacy of legal remedies.
(4) If a motion for temporary relief is filed, the due date for counter-affidavits is seven days following the date on which a party wishing to file counter-affidavits is served with a motion for temporary relief. Counter-affidavits must be filed and served as required by WAC 391-08-120.
(5) The executive director shall forward all motions and affidavits to the commission, which shall determine whether an injunction for temporary relief should be sought. In making its determination, the commission must adhere to the following policy:
The name and authority of the public employment relations commission may not be invoked in connection with a request for temporary relief before the completion of administrative proceedings under this chapter, unless it appears that one or more of the allegations in the complaint is of such a nature that, if sustained, the complainant would have no fair or adequate remedy and would suffer irreparable harm if the status quo is not returned pending the completion of administrative proceedings.
(a) If the commission concludes that temporary relief should be sought, the executive director, acting in the name and on behalf of the commission and with the assistance of the attorney general, shall petition the superior court of the county in which the main office of the employer is located or wherein the person who is alleged to be engaging in unfair labor practices resides or transacts business for an injunction for temporary relief.
(b) Whenever temporary relief has been procured, the complaint that has been the basis for the temporary relief must be heard expeditiously, and the case must be given priority over all other cases except cases of like character.
(c) A determination by the commission that temporary relief should not be sought at a particular time does not bar renewal of the motion for temporary relief following the completion of administrative proceedings in which unfair labor practice violations have been found to exist.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-430, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 41.56.160(3) and 41.59.150. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-430, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 98-14-112, § 391-45-430, filed 7/1/98, effective 8/1/98. Statutory Authority: RCW 41.58.050, 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 28B.52.073 and 41.59.150. WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-430, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-430, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]



PDF391-45-550

Collective bargainingAgency determines mandatory subjects.

It is the policy of the agency to promote collective bargaining negotiations between employers and the exclusive representatives of their employees. Parties are encouraged to engage in free and open exchange of proposals and positions on all matters coming into the dispute between them. Whether a particular subject is mandatory or nonmandatory is a question of law and fact to be determined by the agency and is not subject to waiver by the parties by their action or inaction. It is the policy of the agency that a party which engages in collective bargaining with respect to a particular issue does not and cannot confer the status of a mandatory subject on a nonmandatory subject.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.58.050, 41.59.110, 41.76.060, 41.80.080, 47.64.135, and 49.39.060. WSR 22-23-101, § 391-45-550, filed 11/16/22, effective 1/1/23. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.090, 41.59.110, 41.58.050, 28B.52.073, 41.56.030(4), 41.59.020(2) and 53.18.015. WSR 00-14-048, § 391-45-550, filed 6/30/00, effective 8/1/00; WSR 90-06-074, § 391-45-550, filed 3/7/90, effective 4/7/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.52.080, 41.56.040, 41.58.050, 41.59.110 and 47.64.040. WSR 80-14-048 (Order 80-7), § 391-45-550, filed 9/30/80, effective 11/1/80.]