Ever wonder where that toll-free number rings when you call to get a question answered about your credit card bill?
Or, in the case of welfare recipients, you call for an update on your general assistance debit card?
The person on the other end is a customer service operator working alongside dozens of others in a "call center," most likely in a foreign country. Increasingly, these centers are shutting down in the United States and popping up in countries where workers are paid lower wages.
Now, Washington state, which relies on centers in India and Mexico to assist those receiving state aid, is on the verge of throwing out a lure to companies that run call centers.
State senators Thursday passed a bill offering tax credits to companies that open call centers with at least 25 employees in designated "distressed" areas and community empowerment zones.
Senate Bill 5319 passed 47-1, with Sen. Darlene Fairley, D-Shoreline, dissenting, and was sent to the House for possible action.
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