In the criminal context, a domestic violence offense is a crime committed by a family or household member against another, or by an intimate partner against 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 agencies for services to victims, and contact information for domestic violence organizations is on the DSHS 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.

The Department of Commerce (Commerce) must convene a task force (Task Force) on domestic violence and workplace resources to identify the role of the workplace in helping to curb domestic violence.

Commerce must appoint the following members of the Task Force:

• one member representing each of the following:
  • Association of Washington Business;
  • National Federation of Independent Business;
  • Washington Hospitality Association;
  • Washington Retail Association;
  • Washington State Labor Council;
  • Washington Coalition Against Domestic Violence; and
  • a federally recognized tribe;
• a business owner;
• a survivor of domestic violence; and
• up to two additional members.

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 domestic violence, and whether legislation is needed to address these issues.

A preliminary report is due to the appropriate committees of the Legislature by December 1, 2021, and a final report is due by December 1, 2022.