The bill seeks to enhance protections for workers under Washington's paid family and medical leave program by amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). Key provisions include establishing regular outreach to employers about their responsibilities, such as premium collection and notice requirements, and authorizing the Department of Employment Security to conduct audits of employer records for compliance. The bill also mandates the development of a written statement of employee rights for those absent for more than seven consecutive days due to family or medical leave. Additionally, it reduces the minimum claim duration from eight to four consecutive hours, increases the maximum duration of paid leave, and adjusts the maximum weekly benefit to 90% of the state average weekly wage, with a minimum benefit of $100 per week.

Further amendments focus on voluntary family and medical leave plans, requiring that benefits offered by employers be at least equivalent to those provided by the state's program. Employers must maintain health benefits for employees on leave and cannot exceed maximum payroll deduction rates set by the state. The bill also introduces grant opportunities for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees to help offset costs associated with employee leave, although those with approved voluntary plans are ineligible for these grants. Additionally, it clarifies notification requirements for employers regarding unpaid leave and ensures that the expiration of certain leave periods does not affect eligibility for paid benefits. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and will be null and void if specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 50A.05.020, 50A.15.020, 50A.20.010, 50A.20.020, 50A.30.010, 50A.05.070, 50A.35.020
Substitute Bill: 50A.05.020, 50A.10.030, 50A.15.020, 50A.20.010, 50A.20.020, 50A.30.010, 50A.05.070, 50A.35.010, 50A.35.020
Second Substitute: 50A.05.020, 50A.10.030, 50A.15.020, 50A.20.010, 50A.20.020, 50A.30.010, 50A.05.070, 50A.35.010, 50A.35.020
Engrossed Second Substitute: 50A.05.020, 50A.05.050, 50A.10.030, 50A.15.020, 50A.20.010, 50A.20.020, 50A.30.010, 50A.05.070, 50A.35.010, 50A.35.020