BILL REQ. #:  S-3925.1 

READ FIRST TIME 01/23/14.   

     AN ACT Relating to whistleblowers; and adding a new section to chapter 49.60 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 49.60 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) When the commission has completed the investigation of a complaint alleging workplace reprisal or retaliatory action against a whistleblower as defined in chapter 70.87 RCW, the commission must notify the complainant of the completion of the investigation. The commission must issue written findings of fact and a finding that there is or there is not reasonable cause for believing an unfair practice has been or is being committed as required by RCW 49.60.240 within ninety days of notification of the completed investigation.
     (2) If the individual filing a complaint alleging workplace reprisal or retaliatory action against a whistleblower under chapter 70.87 RCW is represented by a labor union, the commission must notify the union of the complaint and the results of the investigation.
     (3) If, after a finding is made that there is reasonable cause for believing that an unfair practice has been or is being committed against a whistleblower under chapter 70.87 RCW, no agreement is reached for the elimination of the unfair practice within six months, a finding to that effect must be made and reduced to writing, with a copy provided to the complainant, the complainant's labor union, and the respondent. The commission, in the exercise of discretion, may grant additional time to seek agreement for the elimination of the unfair practice based on extenuating facts and circumstances.