The bill amends the Washington Fair Chance Act to enhance protections for job applicants and employees with criminal records. Key definitions are expanded, including the terms "adult conviction record," "arrest record," and "juvenile conviction record," which now encompass a broader range of criminal history information. Employers are prohibited from inquiring about an applicant's criminal record until after a conditional offer of employment is made. Additionally, the bill prohibits advertising that excludes individuals with criminal records and mandates that employers cannot implement policies that automatically disqualify applicants based on their criminal history.

The enforcement provisions are also strengthened, allowing the state attorney general's office to investigate violations and impose penalties. The bill introduces a tiered penalty system for violations, with increased fines for repeat offenses. It specifies that penalties are payable to the aggrieved parties and outlines the attorney general's authority to pursue legal action for unpaid wages and damages. The act will take effect for larger employers on July 1, 2026, and for smaller employers on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.94.005, 49.94.010, 49.94.030
Engrossed Bill: 49.94.005, 49.94.010, 49.94.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 49.94.005, 49.94.010, 49.94.030
Session Law: 49.94.005, 49.94.010, 49.94.030