Washington survey sees employee benefits shrinking

OLYMPIA — The Washington Employment Security Department says fewer employers in the state are offering employee benefits. A survey found that the percentage of employers offering medical benefits fell from 66 percent in 2007 to 57 percent last year. Sick leave dropped from 44 to 38 percent. Dental coverage from 47 to 37 percent. Average medical insurance premiums increased by 4 percent for employees to $358 a month. The survey found the percentage of employers offering paid vacations went from 73 to 63 percent. And retirement plans from 44 to 38 percent. Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee says companies figure a job with fewer benefits is better than no job at all.