The bill aims to protect employees from coercion in the workplace based on their immigration status by amending existing labor laws and introducing new provisions. It defines "coercion" and "threat" in relation to an employee's immigration status, establishing that any employer who coerces an employee in violation of wage payment or labor condition requirements is subject to civil penalties. The penalties range from $1,000 for the first violation to $10,000 for subsequent violations, with provisions for inflation adjustments every three years. Employees can file complaints within 180 days of alleged coercion, and the Department of Labor and Industries is tasked with investigating these complaints and issuing penalties as necessary.

Additionally, the bill includes measures to ensure the confidentiality of personal information related to employees and their families during investigations. It allows the department to take action if coercion is discovered during other investigations, and it outlines the appeals process for employers who receive citations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and the Department of Labor and Industries is authorized to adopt rules for its implementation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.46.010
Substitute Bill: 49.46.010
Bill as Passed Legislature: 49.46.010
Session Law: 49.46.010