Washington has enacted a final rule that clarifies how the seven-day waiting period impacts Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program. The final rule is effective immediately.

Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1795), which prevents employers from discriminating or retaliating against employees for disclosing certain employment law violations, and prohibits related nondisclosure agreements. House Bill 1795 is effective immediately.

Washington has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 5649), which, among other things, adds bereavement leave for child loss and clarifies conditions for postnatal leave. Senate Bill 5649 takes effect on June 9, 2022.

The state of Washington has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 5671), which amends its Equal Pay and Opportunities Act to add new salary transparency requirements. Senate Bill 5671 takes effect on Jan. 1, 2023.

The State of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1794), which requires employers to reimburse employees for certain bank fees. House Bill 1794 takes effect on June 9, 2022.

Washington has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 5564) that restricts employers' use of employee assistance program (EAP) data. Senate Bill 5564 takes effect on June 9, 2022.

We are reaching out to make you aware of important updates that were recently shared by Washington State legislature impacting collection of premiums for the WA Cares Fund.

On Jan. 27, 2022, Washington state Governor Jay Inslee signed into law two bills, House Bill 1732 and House Bill 1733, which became effective at signing. These new bills will delay and make significant changes to the WA Cares Fund.

Washington has announced that premiums for its Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program will increase and that employers must start collecting premiums for the Washington Cares program. The premium requirements will begin on January 1, 2022.

Seattle Washington's minimum wage will increase on January 1, 2022. Employers must pay all non-exempt employees who work in Seattle at least the minimum wage per hour.

The state of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1097) that amends existing health and safety law. House Bill 1097 takes effect on July 25, 2021.