Subject of Possible Rule Making: The employment security department (department), leave and care division, is considering rules for the paid family and medical leave (PFML) program to implement portions of E2SHB 1213 (chapter 304, Laws of 2025), and SSB 5191 (chapter 178, Laws of 2025). Rules may include implementation of legislative changes related to benefit eligibility requirements, employer sizing, small business grants, definitions, and employment restoration rights. Additional rules to implement other portions of Title 50A RCW may be considered as necessary.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 50A.05.060; E2SHB 1213 (chapter 304, Laws of 2025), and SSB 5191 (chapter 178, Laws of 2025).

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department must implement and administer portions of Title 50A RCW and changes made to the law by E2SHB 1213 and SSB 5191. Rules will ensure clear guidance is available for implementation and administration.

Process for Developing New Rule: Collaborative rule making. The draft rules will be shared with the public, stakeholders, and other agencies responsible for the PFML program. The department will solicit input from all involved parties and consider all comments in the development of the final rules.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Janette Benham, 212 Maple Park Avenue S.E., Olympia, WA 98501, phone 360-790-6583; TTY Theresa Eckstein, relay 771 [711], 360-507-9890, or teckstein@esd.wa.gov; email rules@esd.wa.gov, website paidleave.wa.gov/rulemaking/.