The bill seeks to enhance protections for workers under Washington State's paid family and medical leave program by amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It introduces regular outreach by the department to employers regarding their responsibilities, including premium collection and notice requirements, and authorizes audits of employer records for compliance. The bill also mandates the development of a comprehensive outreach program to inform employees about their rights and benefits, ensuring accessibility in multiple languages. Key changes include reducing the minimum claim duration from eight to four consecutive hours, adjusting the maximum duration of leave to align with typical workweek hours, and setting the maximum weekly benefit at 90% of the state average weekly wage with a minimum of $100 per week. Employers are required to provide written statements of employee rights after seven consecutive days of absence due to family or medical leave.

Additionally, the bill outlines requirements for employers wishing to implement a voluntary family and medical leave plan, ensuring that such plans offer benefits at least equivalent to the state's program. It introduces grant opportunities for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees to help offset costs associated with employee leave, capped at $3,000 and available for up to ten applications per year. The legislation also clarifies employer responsibilities regarding written notice of leave status and the maintenance of health benefits during leave. Certain conditions may exempt employees from these protections, and the act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, with a provision for nullification 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
Session Law: 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