The Keep Washington Working program (RCW 43.330.510) was formed in response to the Keep Washington Working Act of 2019. It addresses statewide policy on supporting Washington’s economy and immigrants’ role in the workplace. The Keep Washington Working statewide work group is made up of eleven representatives, each serving staggered three year terms, with members representing diverse groups, professional associations, businesses, labor organizations and law enforcement agencies from across the state.
The workgroup reports annually to the legislature on its activities, which focus on:
- Developing strategies with private sector businesses, labor and immigrant advocacy organizations to support current and future industries across the state;
- Conducting research on methods to strengthen career pathways for immigrants and create and enhance partnerships with projected growth industries;
- Supporting business and agriculture leadership, civic groups, government and immigrant advocacy organizations in a statewide effort to provide predictability and stability to the workforce in the agriculture industry; and
- Recommending approaches to improve Washington’s ability to attract and retain immigrant business owners that provide new business and trade opportunities.
Membership
- Danielle Alvarado
- Malou Chavez
- Linda Faaren
- Vanessa Gutierrez
- Jennyfer Mesa
- Liz Oropeza
- Sandra Rodarte
- Abigail Scholar (chair)
- Shomya Tripathy
- Evan Woods