The bill seeks to enhance Washington's paid family and medical leave program by implementing several key amendments to the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It establishes regular outreach to employers regarding their responsibilities, including premium collection and notice requirements, and mandates periodic audits of employer records by the Department of Family and Medical Leave to ensure compliance. The bill also introduces new reporting requirements for the department, such as quarterly updates on premium collections and benefit payments, and annual reports on program participation and financial conditions. Significant changes to the benefits structure include reducing the minimum claim duration from eight to four consecutive hours, adjusting the maximum weekly benefit to 90% of the state average weekly wage with a minimum of $100 per week, and requiring employers to provide written statements of employee rights after seven consecutive days of absence.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for employers who wish to implement voluntary family and medical leave plans, ensuring that these plans offer benefits equivalent to the state's program. It introduces grant opportunities for small businesses to help offset costs associated with employee leave, allowing employers with 50 to 150 employees to apply for grants if they hire temporary workers or incur significant wage-related costs. The bill also clarifies employer responsibilities regarding employee notifications and health benefits during leave periods, requiring written notice within five business days of a leave request and maintaining health benefits as if the employee had continued working. 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
Bill as Passed Legislature: 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