The proposed bill aims to enhance protections for employees against coercion in the workplace based on their immigration status. It amends existing definitions in RCW 49.46.010 by introducing new terms such as "coercion," which refers to threats that compel or induce a person to act against their legal rights, and "threat," which specifically pertains to communications regarding an employee's or their family's immigration status made by an employer to deter participation in protected activities.

Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for employers who engage in coercive practices related to wage payment and labor conditions. Employers found to have coerced employees based on immigration status may face fines, with penalties increasing for repeated violations. Workers can file complaints within 180 days of the alleged coercion, and the Department of Labor and Industries is tasked with investigating these complaints and imposing civil penalties, which will be adjusted for inflation every three years. All collected penalties will be deposited into the supplemental pension fund.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.46.010