Medical, dental, vacation and retirement benefits are becoming luxuries in Washington state as companies cut back on perks that made life easier for working people.
Worker benefits across the board took a hit in 2008, according to a report released Thursday by the state Employment Security Department.
For at least four years, the percentage of employers offering medical insurance to full-time employees has fallen. In 2008, the percentage fell to 56.5 percent from 66.3 percent in 2007.
Part-time workers are losing benefits as well -- 9.8 percent of employers offered medical benefits to part-time employees last year.
Dental coverage is offered to full-time employees in 37.4 percent of firms.
Meanwhile, those who do have benefits are paying more for the privilege. The average medical-insurance premium in the state increased by 3.8 percent last year to $358 per month.
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