Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Labor & Workplace Standards Committee

HB 1533

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: Making information about domestic violence resources available in the workplace.

Sponsors: Representatives Mosbrucker, Pettigrew, Corry, Goodman, Maycumber, Dye, Macri, Griffey, Kraft, Van Werven, Chambers, Walsh, Graham, Appleton, Blake, Doglio, Reeves, Stanford, Valdez and Leavitt.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires the Employment Security Department to create a poster regarding domestic violence and requires employers to post the poster in a place with other required employment posters.

Hearing Date: 1/31/19

Staff: Trudes Tango (786-7384).

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.

Summary of Bill:

The Employment Security Department (ESD) must create an employment poster regarding domestic violence. The ESD must make the poster available on its website and in other formats. The poster must include space in which an employer must provide the name or names of community resources regarding domestic violence. The employer must post the poster and keep it posted in a conspicuous place where other required employment posters are posted.

The bill does not create any liability for any person or entity for any acts or omissions.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 25, 2019.

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