The Seattle Times is reporting that a single email has killed a worker-rights bill that was a top priority of the Washington State Labor Council. Here’s an excerpt:

Here is the text of the Democrats’ joint statement:

“We are no longer considering action on House Bill 1528 and Senate Bill 5446, also known as the Worker Privacy Act.

“Immediately upon becoming aware of an e-mail linking potential action on the bill to campaign contributions, bringing the bill forward was no longer an option.

“The e-mail raises serious legal and ethical questions. The matter has been referred to the Washington State Patrol for investigation.”

Part of the email implied that campaign contributions would stop unless the bill was signed into law. Lawmakers say the Legislature is not for sale and has asked the Washington State Patrol to investigate. This is yet another in a long line of cases where a poorly worded or just plain inappropriate email has played political havoc. So far several resignations have resulted as the result of racist emails about President Obama, and at least once lawmaker in Canada drew fire after distributing an email that supported anti-Israel sentiments and glorified the terrorist group Hezbollah. Once again, when in a professional setting think very carefully before hitting that send button!