It’s the season for legislative updates – and Washington State lawmakers are no exception. Job postings have recently been an area of focus in state and local laws. Two recent updates in Washington State impose new requirements on employers concerning the type of information they may and may not seek from job applicants.
Read the full article from our friends at Littler Mendelson P.C.
Amends Washington’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act (Chapter 49.58 RCW).
Effective Date: July 27, 2025.
Key Provisions:
Employers may not require a valid driver’s license in job postings or as a condition of employment unless:
Driving is an essential function of the position, or
A valid license is related to a legitimate business purpose.
Aims to prevent discrimination against:
Individuals with medical disabilities, and
Applicants using alternative transportation.
Enforcement:
Administered by the Department of Labor and Industries.
Potential remedies include:
Actual or statutory damages ($5,000 minimum),
Civil penalties, interest, enforcement costs, and other relief.
Employer Action:
Review and revise job postings to ensure compliance.
Amends Spokane’s local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinance.
Effective Date: May 25, 2025.
Purpose:
Prevent employment discrimination based on housing status to help unhoused individuals.
Key Provisions:
Employers in Spokane may not:
Disqualify applicants based on address or lack of permanent housing,
Inquire about housing status during the application process (written or oral).
Definition of “homelessness” includes:
Living on the streets, in shelters, or temporary residences.
Employers may request a mailing address or contact info, but not housing status.
No obligation to accommodate or modify jobs for homeless applicants.
Employers may reject or terminate applicants as long as it's not solely due to homelessness.
Enforcement:
Managed through Spokane’s municipal court system.
No private right of action under state law.
Employer Action:
Review hiring practices and job applications for compliance.