Barbara Robertson, member of Interpreters United (WFSE/AFSCME Local 1671), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the alleged wage theft issues faced by freelance interpreters in Washington State. Robertson shed light on the union's efforts to secure fair compensation and the broader implications for injured workers requiring interpretation services.
Robertson explained that since 2020, the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) has sent interpreters to jobs without guaranteeing payment, particularly for self-insured claims. This has resulted in approximately $250,000 in unpaid wages to interpreters between 2020 and 2024. In response, the union has filed a lawsuit against L&I in Thurston County Superior Court.
The lack of transparency from L&I has exacerbated the problem, with interpreters often unaware if they will be paid for a job until after completing it, Robertson said. This uncertainty has led to reluctance among interpreters to accept assignments, potentially impacting injured workers who require language assistance. Robertson emphasized that while they want to help injured workers, interpreters cannot work as volunteers and need fair compensation.
Interpreters United, the first and only freelance interpreters union in the United States, has been fighting to improve working conditions since its formation in 2012. The union has successfully negotiated pay raises and focuses on resolving the payment issues since 2020. Robertson highlighted the need for increased public awareness and media attention to pressure L&I to address these concerns and ensure fair treatment for interpreters across Washington State.
Listen to the full episode for more insights on the challenges faced by freelance interpreters and their fight for fair compensation.