The proposed bill seeks to enhance labor market protections for domestic workers in Washington State, addressing their historical exclusion from basic labor rights. It guarantees essential protections such as health, safety, wage rights, meal and rest breaks, sick time, and safeguards against discrimination and harassment. The bill defines key terms, including "domestic worker" and "hiring entity," and outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including wage payment requirements and the necessity for written agreements detailing employment terms. It also prohibits hiring entities from discriminatory practices, retaining personal documents of domestic workers, and interfering with their rights, establishing penalties for violations and a process for filing complaints.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions to protect domestic workers from retaliation for exercising their rights, establishing a rebuttable presumption of retaliation if adverse actions occur within 90 days of such actions. It empowers the Department of Labor and Industries to conduct investigations and enforce compliance, while also allowing domestic workers to pursue private legal action for violations. The bill amends various definitions related to employment and anti-discrimination, clarifying terms and expanding protections for individuals with disabilities. It mandates the formation of a work group to explore industrial insurance coverage for domestic workers, with findings to be reported to the legislature by October 1, 2026, and specifies an effective date of July 1, 2026, for certain sections.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.46.010, 49.60.040, 51.12.020
Substitute Bill: 49.46.010, 49.60.040, 49.60.230
Engrossed Substitute: 49.46.010, 49.60.040, 49.60.230