Washington Employment Laws

Prohibits employment discrimination based on race, creed/religion, color, national origin, families with children, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, age, military status, disability, hair (racial discrimination), and citizenship/immigration status. Applies to employers with 8+ employees. Enforced by the Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC).

The 2026 minimum wage is $17.13/hour (up from $16.66 in 2025) — one of the highest state minimums in the nation. Adjusted annually by CPI-W. Youth rate (ages 14–15): 85% of standard.

Overtime at 1.5x base rate for hours over 40/week. The 2026 overtime exemption salary threshold is $80,168.40/year ($1,541.70/week) — 2.25x the annual state minimum wage.

Mandatory statewide insurance program providing partial wage replacement for serious health conditions, family care, bonding with a new child, or military family leave. Eligible after 820 hours worked in the qualifying year.

All employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave per 40 hours worked, usable after 90 calendar days of employment. Carries over year to year.

State employees are protected under the State Employee Whistleblower Protection Act. WISHA (RCW 49.17.160) protects employees reporting workplace safety concerns — complaints must be filed with L&I within 30 days.