Washington State introduces protections under new Equal Pay and Opportunities Act

The Washington Legislature's House Labor & Workplace Standards meeting on March 25, 2025, focused on significant updates to the Equal Pay and Opportunities Act. The proposed changes aim to enhance transparency in job postings and provide clearer pathways for individuals to seek remedies if employers fail to comply with wage and salary disclosure requirements.

Key provisions of the bill include allowing individuals to pursue administrative remedies or civil action if they believe an employer has violated disclosure requirements. The Department of Labor and Industries (LNI) will first attempt to resolve any complaints through conference and conciliation. If no resolution is reached, LNI can issue citations and require employers to pay actual damages or statutory damages, whichever is greater, along with interest.

The bill stipulates that employers must receive written notice from a job applicant before any administrative or civil action can be initiated. This notice alerts employers to potential non-compliance with wage disclosure requirements. If an employer corrects the job posting within 14 days of receiving such notice, they may avoid penalties or damages.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions from the committee members, indicating ongoing discussions about the implications of these legislative changes. The proposed bill represents a significant step toward ensuring fair pay practices and accountability among employers in Washington.