The bill amends existing Washington state laws regarding wages for journeypersons working in high-hazard facilities. It introduces new definitions, including "applicable occupation," which refers to the specific trade or occupation as defined by relevant state rules, and "registered apprentice," which outlines the criteria for apprentices in approved programs. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "skilled journeyperson" and establishes wage payment requirements, ensuring that workers are compensated at rates commensurate with typical wages for their occupation in the geographic area. The bill also specifies that failure to comply with these workforce requirements, except for wage rates, constitutes a violation of existing labor laws.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that workers in apprenticeable occupations who do not meet the definitions of registered apprentices or skilled journeypersons will still be considered skilled journeypersons for wage requirement purposes. This provision aims to protect workers' rights to fair compensation. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.80.010
Engrossed Bill: 49.80.010, 49.80.040
Bill as Passed Legislature: 49.80.010, 49.80.040
Session Law: 49.80.010, 49.80.040