Bill > HB1788

This bill modifies workers' compensation benefits in Washington state, specifically changing how permanent total disability payments are calculated for claims with a date of injury or disease manifestation on or after July 1, 2026. The bill introduces a new sliding scale of compensation based on the worker's marital status and number of children, ranging from 60% to 75% of the worker's wages. For example, an unmarried worker with no children would receive 60% of their wages, while an unmarried worker with six or more children (or a married worker with five or more children) would receive 75% of their wages. The bill also mandates that a 2% payment of the worker's wages will be made to the person with legal custody of the worker's child, which will be offset by a corresponding reduction in the worker's compensation. These changes will only apply to claims from July 1, 2026 onward, with different calculation methods for earlier claims. The bill includes a provision that it will become null and void if specific funding is not provided in the omnibus appropriations act by June 30, 2025, ensuring that the changes are financially feasible.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1788&Year=2025&Initiative=false