OLYMPIA — New legislation introduced in the Washington State Senate on Wednesday would help workers affected by layoffs due to recent federal policy changes.
Senate Bill 5767, sponsored by Sen. Rebecca Saldaña (D-Seattle), would establish priority consideration for federal employees who lost their jobs due to Trump’s Executive Order 14210, which resulted in widespread job cuts and the rollback of remote work arrangements.
Similar to Washington state’s existing veterans’ hiring preferences, the bill ensures that displaced federal workers receive priority consideration for state agency positions and advantages in promotion processes, helping them transition into Washington’s workforce.
“Trump’s policies have negatively impacted hardworking federal employees, threatening their job security and financial stability,” Saldaña said. “Here in this Washington, we’re taking concrete steps to support and uplift them, making sure those who’ve dedicated their careers to serving the public can continue their service in our state government.”
The legislation responds to workforce reductions by providing a direct pathway for affected employees to enter state service. By retaining experienced professionals, SB 5767 also strengthens Washington’s public sector workforce, ensuring it remains diverse, capable, and well-equipped to serve all Washingtonians.
“It’s our responsibility to ensure that federal workers’ experience and dedication to public service are not overlooked while also strengthening our state’s public workforce,” Saldaña said.
The bill has been referred to the Senate State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections Committee for consideration. Follow the bill’s progress here.
