The bill seeks to strengthen 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 mandates the Department of Employment Security to conduct periodic audits of employer records for compliance. Additionally, employers are required to provide a written statement of employee rights to those absent for more than seven consecutive days due to family or medical leave. Significant changes to the benefits structure include reducing the minimum claim duration from eight to four consecutive hours and adjusting the maximum weekly benefit to 90% of the state average weekly wage, with a minimum benefit of $100 per week.

The bill also revises employee eligibility criteria, requiring at least 90 calendar days of employment with the current employer before taking leave, replacing the previous 12-month requirement. It allows employers to deny restoration of employment to the highest-paid 10 percent of employees within 75 miles if necessary to prevent significant economic injury. Furthermore, it mandates that employers maintain health benefits for employees on leave and provide written notice regarding leave status and employment restoration rights. The bill clarifies that it does not alter existing employee rights under other state or federal laws and 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