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Understanding Washington Employment and Labor Laws

Legal & compliance

PEO

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Author

Michał Kowalewski

Published

September 04, 2024

Last Update

February 03, 2025

Table of Contents

Federal vs. state law differences

Employment vs. labor law: what’s the difference?

Wages and hours in Washington

Leaves of absence in Washington

Workplace safety in Washington

Discrimination and harassment laws in Washington

Unions in Washington

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Key takeaways
  1. Washington state's minimum wage is among the highest in the United States, with automatic annual adjustments based on inflation
  2. Washington requires employers to provide paid family and medical leave, ensuring employees have support during critical life events
  3. The state enforces strict anti-discrimination laws, protecting employees from workplace discrimination and harassment based on various protected characteristics

In the US, labor and employment laws establish the framework for fair and equitable workplaces. They outline the rights and responsibilities of employers, employees, and labor unions, covering areas such as wages, working conditions, health and safety, and termination. Since these laws can vary by state, it's crucial for both employers and employees to know their local requirements. In this article, we’ll cover the key laws in Washington state.

Federal vs. state law differences

While federal laws provide a baseline across the United States, Washington state has enacted additional laws that offer greater protections to workers. For instance, Washington's minimum wage is significantly higher than the federal minimum wage, reflecting the state's commitment to fair compensation. It's essential for both employers and employees to be aware of these state-specific regulations to ensure compliance.

Employment vs. labor law: what’s the difference?

Employment laws typically cover the rights and responsibilities of individual employees, including wage standards, discrimination protections, and leave policies. Labor laws, on the other hand, focus on the relationship between employers and collective entities like unions, covering collective bargaining, worker's rights to organize, and union management.

Wages and hours in Washington

Washington’s wage and hour laws incorporate both state-specific requirements and federal guidelines, ensuring fair compensation for workers.

Minimum wage in Washington

As of 2025, the minimum wage in Washington is $16.66 per hour, one of the highest in the nation. This rate is adjusted annually based on the cost of living, ensuring that it keeps pace with inflation and economic changes.

Overtime pay in Washington

Under Washington state law, non-exempt employees must be paid overtime at a rate of one and a half times their regular pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. This law is designed to ensure that employees are fairly compensated for extended work hours.

Pay transparency in Washington

Washington state requires employers to include salary ranges and a general description of all benefits in job postings. This transparency helps prevent wage discrimination and ensures fair compensation practices across the state.

Breaks and rest periods in Washington

Washington law mandates that employees receive a 10-minute paid rest break for every four hours worked and a 30-minute meal break if they work more than five hours in a shift. These breaks help ensure employees' health and well-being.

Leaves of absence in Washington

Washington has one of the most comprehensive family and medical leave programs in the US. Eligible employees can receive up to 12 weeks of paid leave for family or medical reasons, with additional time available for pregnancy complications or other severe health conditions.

Pregnancy disability leave

In Washington, the Paid Family and Medical Leave program covers pregnancy-related conditions, ensuring that expecting and new mothers have the support they need.

Paid sick leave

Washington state law requires that all employees accrue at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked. This leave can be used for personal or family illness, medical appointments, or issues related to domestic violence.

Jury duty in Washington

Employers in Washington must allow employees to take time off for jury duty without fear of retaliation or termination. While the law does not require employers to pay employees for this time, it does protect their job status.

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Workplace safety in Washington

Washington state adheres to both federal OSHA standards and additional state-specific safety regulations under the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA). These regulations ensure that workplaces maintain a safe environment for all employees, including specific safety training and reporting requirements.

Discrimination and harassment laws in Washington

Washington enforces strict anti-discrimination laws to ensure a fair and equitable workplace. State law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations and take steps to prevent harassment in the workplace.

Unions in Washington

Washington state supports the rights of workers to organize and engage in collective bargaining. Labor union activities are protected under both state and federal laws, with specific provisions managed by the Washington State Public Employment Relations Commission.

FAQs

As of 2025, the minimum wage in Washington is $16.66 per hour, adjusted annually for inflation.

Yes, Washington state law requires employers to participate in the Paid Family and Medical Leave program, offering paid leave for eligible employees.

Washington state law prohibits discrimination based on various protected characteristics, including race, gender, disability, and sexual orientation. Employers must also have policies to address and prevent harassment.

Employees can file complaints regarding labor law violations with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), depending on the issue.

Yes, Washington law mandates a 10-minute paid rest break for every four hours worked and a 30-minute meal break for shifts over five hours.

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Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes and should not be treated as legal or tax advice. Consult a professional before proceeding.

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About the author

Michał Kowalewski a writer and content manager with 7+ years of experience in digital marketing. He spent most of his professional career working in startups and tech industry. He's a big proponent of remote work considering it not just a professional preference but a lifestyle that enhances productivity and fosters a flexible work environment. He enjoys tackling topics of venture capital, equity, and startup finance.

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