Washington State Modified Hospital Workers Meal and Rest Break Requirements

Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson has signed House Bill 1879 (HB 1879) into law, which modifies meal and rest break requirements for hospital workers. The law takes effect Jan, 1, 2026.

Washington Increases Child Labor Protections

The state of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1644), which adds child labor protections. House Bill 1644 is effective July 1, 2026.

Washington Adds Immigration Status Protections

The State of Washington has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 5104), which adds immigration status protections. Senate Bill 5104 is effective July 1, 2025.

Washington Requires Notice Before Certain Layoffs

The state of Washington has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 5525, Securing Timely Notification and Benefits for Laid-Off Employees Act (the Act)), which adds employer requirements surrounding mass layoffs and business closures. The Act is set to take effect on July 27, 2025.

Washington Amends Pay Transparency Law

The State of Washington has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 5408), which amends its Equal Pay and Opportunities Act. Senate Bill 5408 takes effect on July 27, 2025.

Washington - Spokane, Washington Restricts Address Use in Hiring Process

Spokane, Washington has passed Ordinance C36666 (the Ordinance), which adds restrictions on how employers use an applicant’s address in the hiring process. The Ordinance takes effect on May 25, 2025.

Washington Expands Paid Sick Leave

The state of Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1875), which amends its paid sick leave law to allow employees and transportation network company drivers to use paid sick leave to prepare for or participate in a judicial or administrative immigration proceeding. House Bill 1875 takes effect on July 27, 2025.

Washington Expands Employee Protections Under Fair Chance Act

Washington has enacted legislation (House Bill 1747), which amends the Washington Fair Chance Act to further restrict employers from using criminal records. House Bill 1747 takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Washington - Burien, WA enacts minimum wage ordinance

The Burien, WA City Council has adopted Ordinance 855 , which will increase the minimum wage for certain employees.

Washington - King County, WA Enacts Minimum Wage Ordinance

King County, Washington has enacted legislation that will increase the minimum wage in unincorporated King County.

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