The new members, who handle the transport of the deceased and provide direct support to grieving families, sought union representation to address grievances regarding workplace conditions and compensation. Their decision follows repeated instances where staff felt their physical well-being was overlooked by leadership.

"People have been hurt and pressured to return to work before they are fully healed," said staff associate Leía Allen. "Our needs and requests have been repeatedly ignored, forgotten, and dismissed." Paul Dascher, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 117, emphasized that these employees provide essential support during periods of profound loss and should be backed by a contract that guarantees fair pay and safety provisions. The union, which currently represents 19,000 workers across Washington State, will now move to negotiate a contract covering the expanded group.