The bill amends the Washington Equal Pay and Opportunities Act to include protections for workers based on their membership in various protected classes, such as age, sex, race, and disability. It introduces new definitions, including "protected class," and expands the scope of discrimination to encompass not only gender but also membership in these protected classes. Employers are prohibited from seeking salary history from applicants and must provide wage information to employees. The bill also establishes that employees can file complaints based on discrimination related to multiple protected classes.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Labor and Industries to develop educational materials and conduct outreach regarding these new provisions. It specifies penalties for employers found to be in violation of the act, including damages and civil penalties for repeated offenses. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, allowing time for implementation and awareness efforts.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.58.005, 49.58.010, 49.58.020, 49.58.030
Substitute Bill: 49.58.005, 49.58.010, 49.58.020, 49.58.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 49.58.005, 49.58.010, 49.58.020, 49.58.030
Session Law: 49.58.005, 49.58.010, 49.58.020, 49.58.030