Bill > SB5408

This bill amends existing Washington state law to provide additional details and flexibility around wage and salary disclosure requirements for employers. Specifically, the bill requires employers with 15 or more employees to disclose wage scales or salary ranges (or fixed wage amounts) in job postings, along with a general description of benefits and compensation. From the effective date through July 27, 2027, employers are given an opportunity to correct violations of these disclosure requirements after receiving written notice, which prevents immediate penalties. The bill establishes administrative and civil remedies for violations, including potential statutory damages between $100 and $5,000 per violation, which can be pursued either through the state department or through a private civil action. Factors like willfulness of the violation, employer size, and deterrence potential will be considered when assessing damages. The bill also specifies that these administrative and civil remedies are now the exclusive methods for addressing wage disclosure violations, replacing previous remedy mechanisms. Importantly, the bill provides a three-year statute of limitations for bringing civil actions and allows job applicants or employees to seek damages either through administrative channels or court action, but not both. The law aims to increase wage transparency and provide clear pathways for addressing non-compliance by employers.