With the close of the 2025 Washington state legislative session, it is time to review the new employment laws and amendments that will affect businesses operating in Washington. Many of these changes take effect on July 27, 2025, while others will become effective in the new year. Employers are encouraged to consult experienced counsel regarding these updates. Topics covered this session include:
New Notice Requirements for Mass Layoffs or Business Closures
Effective: July 27, 2025 | E2SSB 5525
Summary: Washington’s new “mini-WARN” law requires employers with 50 or more employees to provide 60 days’ advance written notice of mass layoffs or business closures to the Washington Employment Security Department (ESD) and affected employees or their bargaining representatives. Notice to the ESD must include names and addresses of affected employees. Employees on leave under the Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) law are protected from mass layoffs, with limited exceptions for unforeseeable business circumstances or natural disasters. For more information, see our prior Update here.
Action item: Monitor workforce reduction plans, terminations, or business closures and ensure compliance with both state and federal WARN notice requirements.
Driver’s License Requirements
Effective: July 27, 2025 | SB 5501
Summary: Employers may not require a valid driver’s license as a condition of employment or state in job postings that a license is required, unless driving is an...
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