Fight Between Union, Conservative Group

SEATTLE (AP) — The ongoing fight between a powerful labor union and a conservative group has spilled over into Washington's state election.

Initiative 1501 on the Nov. 8 ballot would stiffen penalties for identify theft and consumer fraud when seniors or disabled citizens are targeted.

But opponents say the real purpose is an attempt by Service Employees International Union Local 775 to change the state Public Records Act to prevent the release of members' contact information to outside groups.

And a leading senior citizen advocacy group, AARP Washington, which is neutral on the measure, says it isn't likely to protect vulnerable adults from consumer fraud.

SEIU 775, which represents independent state workers who provide in-home care, has bankrolled nearly all of the $1.46 million raised by the campaign.