The bill aims to expand pregnancy-related accommodations for employees in Washington State by establishing a new chapter in Title 49 RCW. It defines key terms such as "reasonable accommodation," which includes provisions for flexible restroom breaks, modified work schedules, and the ability to express breast milk in a private location. Employers are required to make reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees unless they can demonstrate that doing so would impose an undue hardship. The bill also prohibits adverse actions against employees who request or use these accommodations and mandates that any break time for expressing milk must be compensated.

Additionally, the bill repeals existing provisions under RCW 43.10.005 and introduces new enforcement mechanisms, including the ability for the Department of Labor and Industries to investigate complaints and issue temporary restraining orders. It allows individuals to pursue civil action for violations and establishes penalties for non-compliance. The bill also includes a provision that allows breastfeeding individuals to request to be excused from jury service. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.10.005, 2.36.100
Substitute Bill: 43.10.005, 2.36.100
Second Substitute: 2.36.100
Engrossed Second Substitute: 2.36.100
Bill as Passed Legislature: 2.36.100
Session Law: 2.36.100