Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Labor & Workplace Standards Committee

HB 1056

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Creating a task force to identify the role of the workplace in helping curb domestic violence.

Sponsors: Representatives Mosbrucker and Orwall.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Creates a Joint Legislative Task Force on domestic violence and workplace resources to identify the role of the workplace in helping to curb domestic violence.

Hearing Date: 1/15/19

Staff: Joan Elgee (786-7106).

Background:

In the criminal context, a domestic violence offense is a crime committed by one family or household member by another. In the absence of a criminal case, a person experiencing domestic violence may seek a civil protection order that restrains the respondent from contacting the protected person or visiting certain locations.

The state has several programs related to domestic violence assistance. For example, the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) contracts with local governments for services, and contact information for domestic violence organizations is on the DSHS's website. The Administrative Office of the Courts prepares and makes available an informational brochure regarding civil protection orders and related matters.

Domestic violence victims may take job-protected leave to seek legal or law enforcement help, seek treatment from a health care provider, or participate in actions to increase the victim's safety. Family members may also take job-protected leave to help a victim.

Summary of Bill:

A Joint Legislative Task Force (Task Force) on domestic violence and workplace resources is created to identify the role of the workplace in helping to curb domestic violence.

The Task Force is composed of:

The Task Force must review the role of the workplace in the lives of individuals experiencing domestic violence; the appropriate role of employers and employees in helping reduce the incidence of domestic violence; and whether legislation is needed to address these issues.

By December 1, 2019, the Task Force must submit its findings and recommendations to the appropriate committees of the Legislature.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.