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). It introduces regular outreach to employers about their responsibilities, including premium collection and notice requirements, and authorizes the Department of Employment Security to conduct audits of employer records for compliance. Additionally, the bill mandates the development of an outreach program to inform employees of their rights and benefits, ensuring accessibility in multiple languages. 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 clarifying conditions for employment restoration after leave.

Moreover, the bill stipulates that employees must have been employed for at least 90 calendar days to qualify for restoration rights and allows employers to deny restoration to the highest-paid 10 percent of employees to prevent significant economic injury. It also introduces a provision that employees forfeit their right to restoration if not exercised within specified timeframes. Employers are required to maintain health benefits for employees on leave as if they were still working, with outlined exceptions. The bill emphasizes the importance of written notifications from employers regarding leave status and restoration rights, ensuring employees are well-informed of their entitlements. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

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