The proposed bill seeks to enhance labor protections for domestic workers in Washington State by amending existing laws and introducing new regulations. It defines essential terms such as "domestic worker," "hiring entity," and "casual labor," while outlining the rights and responsibilities of both domestic workers and their employers. Key provisions include mandating that hiring entities pay domestic workers at least the minimum wage, provide overtime compensation for hours worked beyond 40 in a week, and create written agreements that detail employment terms. The bill also prohibits practices that create a hostile work environment and establishes a framework for enforcement, allowing the Department of Labor and Industries to investigate complaints and impose penalties for violations.

Additionally, the bill introduces a process for hiring entities to appeal citations and determinations made by the department, with civil penalties ranging from $1,000 for willful violations to between $2,000 and $20,000 for repeat violations. Domestic workers are granted the right to bring civil actions for damages resulting from violations of their rights, and the bill clarifies that these standards do not diminish any more favorable rights provided by other laws. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2027, and includes provisions for the department to adopt necessary rules for implementation and enforcement, ensuring that domestic workers are informed of their rights through model disclosure statements and written agreements in multiple languages.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 49.60.230
Substitute bill: 49.60.230
Bill as passed Legislature: 49.60.230
Session law: 49.60.230