The bill amends the Washington Equal Pay and Opportunities Act to include protections for additional classes of workers, specifically addressing wage disparities and discrimination based on gender and other protected characteristics. It introduces the definition of "protected class," which encompasses various attributes such as age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, and disability, among others. The legislation aims to promote equitable compensation and career advancement opportunities for all workers, particularly those in historically marginalized groups. It prohibits employers from seeking salary history during the hiring process and mandates that they provide wage information to applicants and employees.

Additionally, the bill establishes that any employer who discriminates in compensation based on gender or membership in a protected class is guilty of a misdemeanor and outlines the remedies available to affected employees. It emphasizes that career advancement opportunities should not be limited based on these factors and sets forth procedures for investigating complaints of discrimination. The bill also updates penalties for violations, increasing the maximum civil penalty for repeat offenses and ensuring that each violation affecting an employee is treated separately. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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