The bill establishes a new section in chapter 49.48 RCW aimed at assisting workers in recovering wages owed to them when their employers violate wage laws. It mandates the Department of Labor and Industries to convene a work group tasked with developing strategies to facilitate swift wage recovery for employees. The work group will explore options such as a wage recovery program or fund and will examine successful procedures from other states. Recommendations must be made by consensus when possible, and if not, the majority view will prevail, with dissenting opinions included as supplements.

The work group will consist of representatives from employee advocacy organizations, employer and business advocacy organizations, civil legal aid, and an expert in employment law from a Washington state educational institution. The Department of Labor and Industries will provide necessary staff support, and the work group is required to submit a report with its recommendations to the legislature by December 1, 2025. This section of the bill will expire on December 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.48.040