We hosted a community forum last week on the impact of the recession and budget cuts on women in Washington state.  Over 100 people attended for an evening of great conversation on what’s happening to women in our state and what we can do about it.

Due to a new law that changes the state retirement systems, nest eggs will shrink for many teachers, child protection caseworkers, parole counselors and others who deliver vital services for modest pay. This is despite the fact that their pensions are adequately funded and sustainable. The changes will also require all public-service workers and the state to shoulder higher costs unnecessarily.

Investments that help Washingtonians find work and weather difficult financial times were cut far more deeply than any other public priority during the 2012 Legislative Session. Although these economic security investments represent the smallest share of the entire state budget (3.3 percent), they account for nearly half of all reductions to public services.   

The budget that the Governor signed into law today misses the mark on strengthening the economy and meeting the public’s needs. Rather, it relies on accounting maneuvers and further cuts to investments that keep families economically secure.

Join us for a community forum on the impact of the recession on women and the economy.