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 "employee," "employer," and "reasonable accommodation," which includes provisions for flexible restroom breaks, modified work schedules, and the right to express breast milk in a private location. Employers are prohibited from denying reasonable accommodations unless they can demonstrate that doing so would impose an undue hardship. Additionally, the bill outlines that any break time for expressing milk must be compensated and that the Department of Labor and Industries will provide educational materials regarding the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees related to pregnancy accommodations.

Furthermore, the bill repeals existing provisions under RCW 43.10.005 and introduces penalties for non-compliance, allowing the Department to investigate complaints and enforce the new regulations. It also allows individuals to pursue civil action for violations and mandates that civil penalties collected be deposited into a supplemental pension fund. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, ensuring that the new accommodations and protections are in place for employees experiencing pregnancy-related health conditions.

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