Olympia City Council adopts 4-3 resolution opposing local "workers' bill of rights" after lengthy public hearing

Olympia — The Olympia City Council voted 4–3 on Oct. 7 to adopt a resolution opposing Proposition 1, a citizen initiative that would add a new chapter to the Olympia Municipal Code with minimum-wage tiers, predictive-scheduling requirements and other labor protections. The council opened a public hearing that lasted hours and heard testimony from dozens of residents, business owners and union members before the final vote.

The initiative was described in staff materials as a workers’ bill of rights that would give employees rights to fair scheduling, phased-in minimum wages for small and medium employers, safety planning, and a private right of action. Stacy Ray, assistant city manager, told the council the initiative was certified by Thurston County Elections on July 14, 2025, the City Council referred it to the November ballot by Resolution M2633, and — if approved by voters — it would take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

Supporters argued the…