Interest arbitration is a process whereby the issues not resolved in contract negotiations between the employer and the union may be presented to an impartial arbitrator for final resolution. Interest arbitration is not permitted under RCW 41.80. However, Washington State Ferries employees, home care individual providers, and commissioned officers of the Washington State Patrol have access to interest arbitration. Typically, interest arbitration is provided to employees who engage in essential services, such as public safety, and who therefore do not have the right to strike.