Director of Washington State's L&I Stepping Down
Judy Schurke's resignation as director of the parent agency of the state's Division of Occupational Safety and Health will be effective Dec. 31
Judy Schurke, director of Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, has resigned effective Dec. 31. L&I is the parent agency of Division of Occupational Safety and Health, which administers the state plan –- enacting and enforcing safety and health standards that must be "at least as effective as" comparable federal standards. DOSH also administers the state's workers' compensation system.
Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire issued a statement Nov. 28 thanking Schurke "for a job well done during some of the toughest times in state government. She has led a large and complex agency through some of its largest transformations including a commitment to financial transparency, streamlining of business practices, and building significant stakeholder engagement and trust. Judy has also been the state's biggest champion of Lean management, using it across the agency and setting an example for us all to follow," it said.
"I was especially pleased to have Judy at my side as we negotiated the most significant reforms to the workers' compensation system in its 100-year history. Those efforts have brought results for both workers and businesses and have helped prevent significant rate increases during the great recession. Judy started with the agency more than 30 years ago and leaves behind a strong legacy. She improved the customer experience, engaged employees and has found solutions. I thank her for her commitment and service," Gregoire added.
Her statement said an interim replacement will be selected.