WSR 14-21-084

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed October 13, 2014, 10:46 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination—Preemployment inquiries, leave policies, employee benefits, harassment, dress and grooming standards, gender segregated facilities.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 49.60.120(3).

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: A law was passed by the legislature and signed by the governor in 2006 that prohibits sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination in Washington state. Rules are needed in order to interpret that law to provide understanding to businesses, employers, and the public. Stakeholders have requested clarification and explanation of the law in the form of rules.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

Process for Developing New Rule: The agency held four public forums around the state to gather input for the proposed rules. From the information gathered at those forums, the agency will draft proposed rules.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Laura Lindstrand, Policy Analyst, 711 South Capitol Way, Suite 402, P.O. Box 42490, Olympia, WA 98504-2490, (360) 359-4923, fax (360) 586-2282, e-mail rulemakingcomments@hum.wa.gov. There will be a public hearing held in Olympia, Washington, at a time and place to be determined. Interested parties may attend the public hearing, or may use phone, fax or e-mail to comment.

October 6, 2014

Laura Lindstrand

Policy Analyst