The State of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 5097) that expands eligibility for the state's paid family and medical leave program. House Bill 5097 takes effect on July 25, 2021.

Washington Governor Jay Inslee has signed Senate Bill 5115, also known as the Health Emergency Labor Standards Act (or HELSA). The HELSA expands worker protections during a public health emergency and requires employers to follow certain notice requirements. Senate Bill 5115 is effective immediately.

The State of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1073) that expands employee eligibility for the state's paid family and medical leave program. House Bill 1073 is effective immediately.

The state of Washington has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 5254) that requires certain employers to accommodate an employee's voluntary usage of personal protective equipment (PPE) during a public health emergency. Senate Bill 5254 is effective immediately.

The State of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1206) that requires staffing agencies and employers to follow certain communication and safety protocols for temporary workers. House Bill 1206 takes effect on July 25, 2021.

Washington State has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 5284), which will eliminate subminimum wage certificates for individuals with disabilities. Senate Bill 5284 takes effect on July 25, 2021.

The State of Washington will increase its minimum wage on January 1, 2021.

Seattle Washington's minimum wage will increase on January 1, 2021. All non-exempt employees who work in Seattle must be paid the minimum wage per hour.

The State of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 2602) that expands the definition of race discrimination to include traits historically associated with race. House Bill 2602 is effective June 11, 2020.

The State of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 2602) that expands the definition of race discrimination to include traits historically associated with race. House Bill 2602 is effective June 11, 2020. Background: Washington prohibits employers with eight or more employees from discriminating against applicants and employees because of race and certain other characteristics. House Bill 2602: House Bill 2602 expands race discrimination protections to include traits historically associated with, or perceived to be associated with, race. This includes, but is not limited to, hair texture, hair type, or protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists. Compliance Recommendations: Washington employers should review dress codes, appearance policies, and training to ensure they avoid restrictions on hairstyles historically associated with race and that they comply with House Bill 2602. If your policy simply indicates that employees must maintain kempt hair, consider clarifying that kempt means that the hair is clean and well combed or arranged, and that employees can comply with a variety of hairstyles that meet those criteria. Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.

Effective immediately, Seattle has expanded the reasons employees may take leave under its Paid Sick and Safe Time Ordinance.