The proposed bill aims to enhance protections for employees in Washington State during mass layoffs, relocations, and terminations by mandating that employers provide a 60-day written notice before such actions. This notice must include the reasons for the decision and any alternative measures considered, and it must be communicated to affected employees, local workforce development councils, and relevant government officials. The bill also introduces a mass layoff survey to gather demographic data on impacted employees, promoting transparency and ensuring that workers are informed about available resources and benefits. Additionally, it establishes penalties for non-compliance, including financial liabilities and civil penalties for each day of violation, while allowing exceptions in cases of physical calamity or active capital-seeking efforts by the employer.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws regarding noncompetition covenants, rendering them void unless specific conditions are met, such as providing written disclosure of the terms at the time of the job offer. It also prohibits the enforcement of noncompetition covenants for employees earning less than $100,000 annually and protects employees terminated due to layoffs if the employer fails to comply with notice requirements. The legislation makes it unlawful for employers to coordinate with competitors regarding mass layoffs, classifying such actions as unfair competition. A severability clause is included to ensure that if any part of the act is invalidated, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.44.211, 49.62.020