The proposed bill seeks to enhance protections for workers who are victims of hate crimes by amending several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It introduces the term "hate crime" alongside existing categories such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, thereby affirming the rights of these victims to take reasonable leave for legal assistance, medical treatment, and safety planning. The bill also prohibits discrimination against individuals based on their victim status and requires employers to provide reasonable safety accommodations, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the business. Additionally, it emphasizes the confidentiality of information related to employees' victim status and leave taken.

In a broader context, the bill also strengthens the rights of victims and survivors in felony cases, particularly those involving domestic violence. Key provisions include the right for victims to be informed about trial and sentencing dates, the ability to submit victim impact statements, and the requirement for courts to issue restitution orders in felony cases. It establishes a mechanism for victims, survivors, or witnesses to seek compliance with their rights through petitions in superior court, which must be expedited. A new section specifies that the act will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.76.010, 49.76.020, 49.76.030, 49.76.040, 49.76.060, 49.76.115, 7.69.030
Substitute Bill: 49.76.010, 49.76.020, 49.76.030, 49.76.040, 49.76.060, 49.76.115, 7.69.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 49.76.010, 49.76.020, 49.76.030, 49.76.040, 49.76.060, 49.76.115, 7.69.030
Session Law: 49.76.010, 49.76.020, 49.76.030, 49.76.040, 49.76.060, 49.76.115, 7.69.030