For the second time in four years, voters have approved an SEIU-backed initiative to increase training for long-term-care workers.

Initiative 1163 would more than double required training — from 34 to 75 hours — for most new long-term-care workers. The measure also would require certification and more rigorous background checks.

Voters approved a nearly identical initiative in 2008, but that measure — with SEIU support — was delayed by lawmakers because of an unprecedented budget shortfall.

When the union was unable to get the training requirements reinstated by lawmakers earlier this year, it went to the ballot again with I-1163.

"Voters are saying by an overwhelming margin, implement these changes," said Sandeep Kaushik, a spokesman for the I-1163 campaign.

Cindi Laws, a spokeswoman for the no campaign, said opponents will lobby against the measure in the Legislature. "We're going to work with the Legislature to get this thing delayed," she said.

It takes a two-thirds vote in the state House and Senate to change an initiative in the first two years after voter approval, a high hurdle politically. The initial measure was delayed with SEIU support. But the union, which has many allies in the Legislature, would oppose such a delay this time.

The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) contributed around $1.7 million in cash and in-kind contributions to the I-1163 campaign.

The measure is expected to require $32 million in new state spending over the next two fiscal years, partially offset by federal matching dollars and new fees. The new costs come at a time when lawmakers are trying to close a $2 billion budget shortfall.

For example, Gov. Chris Gregoire proposed saving nearly $15 million by eliminating over-the-counter drug coverage for Medicaid clients and ending medical interpreter services for them, as well. Those costs could be covered by the money I-1163 would take away.

The union has argued that additional training for long-term-care workers is a high enough priority that the state should pay for it now.

Changes to Constitution

Voters also approved two changes to the state Constitution.

Senate Joint Resolution 8206 would send more money to the state rainy-day account when economic times are good.

SJR 8205 cleans up conflicting voting requirement language in the state Constitution, clarifying that voters are eligible once they live in their county and precinct for 30 days.

Andrew Garber: 360-236-8266 or agarber@seattletimes.com