Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session Status: Enacted Bipartisan · 16 D · 1 R cosponsors

HB 2479 — Concerning the recovery of unpaid wages.

Last action — Effective date 6/11/2026*.

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  1. ✓
    Introduced
  2. ✓
    In Committee
  3. ✓
    Passed House
  4. ✓
    Passed Senate
  5. ✓
    To Executive
  6. 6
    Enacted

This bill has been enacted into law. Introduced January 14, 2026. Enacted.

Signed by Governor Bob Ferguson (Democratic) on March 14, 2026.

Prognosis

Likely to advance 98% · high confidence

Where this bill stands today.

Odds of enactment

High

How often bills like it became law.

  • Enacted

    Current position in the legislative process.

  • 17 sponsors

    1 primary, 16 co-sponsors signed on.

  • Bipartisan support

    Sponsored across 2 parties (16 D · 1 R) — cross-party backing.

  • Cleared a recorded vote

    Passed 2 recorded votes so far.

Prognosis reads this bill's own signals — stage, sponsorship breadth, committee status, recorded votes and cross-state momentum. Odds come from a model trained on which bills have become law.

Bill Text

What changed in the latest version

1190 added · 1182 removed

Plain-language change summary

The legislative amendments to House Bill 2479 have removed a section that previously repealed a specific law (RCW 49.48.125) regarding wage complaints. Instead, the updated bill focuses more on penalties for employers who repeatedly violate wage laws, emphasizing the department's ability to impose penalties based on prior violations. This change is significant because it strengthens the enforcement of wage laws, ensuring that employers who frequently disregard wage regulations face increased scrutiny and consequences.

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H-3343.1 SUBSTITUTE HOUSE BILL 2479 State of Washington 69th Legislature 2026 Regular Session By House Labor & Workplace Standards (originally sponsored by Representatives Fosse, Schmidt, Berry, Salahuddin, Zahn, Stearns, Parshley, Goodman, Ramel, Doglio, Bronoske, Cortes, Obras, Pollet, Macri, Nance, and Callan) READ FIRST TIME 02/03/26.
H-2717.3 HOUSE BILL 2479 State of Washington 69th Legislature 2026 Regular Session By Representatives Fosse, Schmidt, Berry, Salahuddin, Zahn, Stearns, Parshley, Goodman, Ramel, Doglio, Bronoske, Cortes, Obras, Pollet, Macri, Nance, and Callan Read first time 01/14/26.
Referred to Committee on Labor & Workplace Standards.
amending RCW 49.48.083, 49.46.320, 49.46.330, 49.46.340, and 49.46.370;
amending RCW 49.48.083, 49.48.125, 49.46.320, 49.46.330, 49.46.340, and 49.46.370;
repealing RCW 49.48.125;
and providing expiration dates.
providing expiration dates;
and prescribing penalties.
1 SHB 2479 complaint.
1 HB 2479 complaint.
The department shall assess a civil penalty against any repeat willful violator or any willful violator p.
The department shall assess a civil penalty against any repeat willful violator as required by RCW p.
2 SHB 2479 where the employer previously settled or otherwise resolved a wage complaint more than once in the preceding 12 months or three times in the preceding 24 months.
2 HB 2479 49.48.125 or any willful violator where the employer previously settled or otherwise resolved a wage complaint more than once in the preceding 12 months or three times in the preceding 24 months.
In creating the matrix, the department must consider the appropriateness of the penalty with respect to the number of affected employees of the employer subject to the penalty, the gravity of the violation, the size of the employer's business, the good faith of the employer, the source or cause of any error, the promptness of remedy, the employer's history of previous complaints and violations, including enhancements for repeat willful violations, or other factors the department considers relevant.
In creating the matrix, the department must consider the appropriateness of the penalty with respect to the number of affected employees of the employer subject to the penalty, the gravity of the violation, the size of the employer's business, the good faith of the employer, the source or cause of any error, the promptness of remedy, the employer's history of previous complaints and violations, or other factors the department considers relevant.
The employer is not a repeat willful violator, the employer has not previously settled or otherwise resolved a wage complaint more than once in the preceding 12 months or three times in the preceding 24 months, and the director determines that the employer has provided payment to the employee of p.
The employer is not a repeat willful violator, the employer has not previously settled or otherwise resolved a wage complaint more than once in the preceding 12 months or three times in the preceding 24 months, and the director determines that the employer has provided payment to the employee of all wages and interest that the department determined that the p.
3 SHB 2479 all wages and interest that the department determined that the employer owed to the employee, including interest, within ((ten)) 10 business days of the employer's receipt of the citation and notice of assessment from the department.
3 HB 2479 employer owed to the employee, including interest, within ((ten)) 10 business days of the employer's receipt of the citation and notice of assessment from the department.
p.
(6) For all wage complaints filed on or after January 1, 2024, if the department offers the employer the option to resolve a wage p.
4 SHB 2479 (6) For all wage complaints filed on or after January 1, 2024, if the department offers the employer the option to resolve a wage complaint without a citation and notice of assessment, and the employer chooses to accept the offer, any settlement must include interest of one percent per month on all amounts owed.
4 HB 2479 complaint without a citation and notice of assessment, and the employer chooses to accept the offer, any settlement must include interest of one percent per month on all amounts owed.
p.
(3)(a) To help prevent immediate economic harm to the employee, the department should attempt to disburse funds after the department p.
5 SHB 2479 (3)(a) To help prevent immediate economic harm to the employee, the department should attempt to disburse funds after the department has determined the complaint has merit and at the earliest possible point in the investigation process, as determined by the department.
5 HB 2479 has determined the complaint has merit and at the earliest possible point in the investigation process, as determined by the department.
p.
(b) The department is not criminally or civilly liable and may not have any penalty or cause of action of any nature arise against p.
6 SHB 2479 (b) The department is not criminally or civilly liable and may not have any penalty or cause of action of any nature arise against it regarding the provision or lack of provision of funds for payments under this section.
6 HB 2479 it regarding the provision or lack of provision of funds for payments under this section.
p.
NEW SECTION.
7 SHB 2479 NEW SECTION.
The wage recovery account is created in the custody of the state treasurer.
p.
7 HB 2479 The wage recovery account is created in the custody of the state treasurer.
NEW SECTION.
RCW 49.48.125 and 2010 c 42 s 6 are each amended to read as follows:
(1) The department shall assess a civil penalty against any repeat willful violator in an amount ((of not less than one thousand dollars or an amount equal to ten percent of the total amount of unpaid wages, whichever is greater.
The maximum civil penalty for a repeat willful violator under this section is twenty thousand dollars)) consistent with RCW 49.48.083(3).
(2) The department may ((waive or)) reduce a civil penalty assessed under this section if the director determines that the employer has paid all wages and interest owed to the employee.
NEW SECTION.
Sec.
5.
Sec.
p.
5.
8 HB 2479 Sec.
6.
p.
(2) All income received from investment of the treasurer's trust fund must be set aside in an account in the treasury trust fund to be known as the investment income account.
8 SHB 2479 (2) All income received from investment of the treasurer's trust fund must be set aside in an account in the treasury trust fund to be known as the investment income account.
national statuary hall collection fund, the foster care scholarship endowment fund, the foster care endowed scholarship trust fund, the contract harvesting revolving account, the Washington state combined fund drive account, the county 911 excise tax account, the county road administration board emergency loan account, the toll collection account, the developmental disabilities endowment trust fund, the energy account, the energy facility site evaluation council account, the fair fund, the family and medical leave insurance account, the Fern Lodge maintenance account, the fish and wildlife federal lands revolving account, the natural resources federal lands revolving account, the food animal veterinarian conditional scholarship account, the forest health revolving account, the fruit and vegetable inspection account, the p.
national statuary hall collection fund, the foster care scholarship endowment fund, the foster care endowed scholarship trust fund, the contract harvesting revolving account, the Washington state combined fund drive account, the county 911 excise tax account, the county road administration board emergency loan account, the toll collection account, the developmental p.
9 SHB 2479 educator conditional scholarship account, the game farm alternative account, the GET ready for math and science scholarship account, the Washington global health technologies and product development account, the grain inspection revolving fund, the Washington history day account, the industrial insurance rainy day fund, the law enforcement officers' and firefighters' plan 2 expense fund, the local tourism promotion account, the low-income home rehabilitation account, the medication for people living with HIV rebate revenue account, the homeowner recovery account, the wage recovery account, the multiagency permitting team account, the northeast Washington wolf-livestock management account, the pollution liability insurance program trust account, the public use general aviation airport loan revolving account, the regional transportation investment district account, the rural rehabilitation account, the Washington sexual assault kit account, the stadium and exhibition center account, the youth athletic facility account, the self-insurance revolving fund, the children's trust fund, the Washington horse racing commission Washington bred owners' bonus fund and breeder awards account, the Washington horse racing commission class C purse fund account, the individual development account program account, the Washington horse racing commission operating account, the life sciences discovery fund, the Washington state library-archives building account, the reduced cigarette ignition propensity account, the center for deaf and hard of hearing youth account, the school for the blind account, the public employees' and retirees' insurance reserve fund, the school employees' benefits board insurance reserve fund, the public employees' and retirees' insurance account, the school employees' insurance account, the long-term services and supports trust account, the radiation perpetual maintenance fund, the Indian health improvement reinvestment account, the department of licensing tuition recovery trust fund, the student achievement council tuition recovery trust fund, the tuition recovery trust fund, the industrial insurance premium refund account, the mobile home park relocation fund, the natural resources deposit fund, the Washington state health insurance pool account, the federal forest revolving account, the Washington saves administrative trust account, and the library operations account.
9 HB 2479 disabilities endowment trust fund, the energy account, the energy facility site evaluation council account, the fair fund, the family and medical leave insurance account, the Fern Lodge maintenance account, the fish and wildlife federal lands revolving account, the natural resources federal lands revolving account, the food animal veterinarian conditional scholarship account, the forest health revolving account, the fruit and vegetable inspection account, the educator conditional scholarship account, the game farm alternative account, the GET ready for math and science scholarship account, the Washington global health technologies and product development account, the grain inspection revolving fund, the Washington history day account, the industrial insurance rainy day fund, the law enforcement officers' and firefighters' plan 2 expense fund, the local tourism promotion account, the low-income home rehabilitation account, the medication for people living with HIV rebate revenue account, the homeowner recovery account, the wage recovery account, the multiagency permitting team account, the northeast Washington wolf-livestock management account, the pollution liability insurance program trust account, the public use general aviation airport loan revolving account, the regional transportation investment district account, the rural rehabilitation account, the Washington sexual assault kit account, the stadium and exhibition center account, the youth athletic facility account, the self-insurance revolving fund, the children's trust fund, the Washington horse racing commission Washington bred owners' bonus fund and breeder awards account, the Washington horse racing commission class C purse fund account, the individual development account program account, the Washington horse racing commission operating account, the life sciences discovery fund, the Washington state library-archives building account, the reduced cigarette ignition propensity account, the center for deaf and hard of hearing youth account, the school for the blind account, the public employees' and retirees' insurance reserve fund, the school employees' benefits board insurance reserve fund, the public employees' and retirees' insurance account, the school employees' insurance account, the long-term services and supports trust account, the radiation perpetual maintenance fund, the Indian health improvement reinvestment account, the department of licensing tuition recovery trust fund, the student achievement council tuition recovery trust fund, the tuition recovery trust fund, the industrial insurance premium refund account, the mobile home park relocation fund, the p.
10 HB 2479 natural resources deposit fund, the Washington state health insurance pool account, the federal forest revolving account, the Washington saves administrative trust account, and the library operations account.
The advance right-of-way p.
The advance right-of-way revolving fund, the advanced environmental mitigation revolving account, the federal narcotics asset forfeitures account, the high occupancy vehicle account, the local rail service assistance account, and the miscellaneous transportation programs account.
10 SHB 2479 revolving fund, the advanced environmental mitigation revolving account, the federal narcotics asset forfeitures account, the high occupancy vehicle account, the local rail service assistance account, and the miscellaneous transportation programs account.
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6.
7.
(4)(a) Monthly, the state treasurer must distribute the earnings credited to the investment income account to the state general fund except under (b), (c), and (d) of this subsection.
p.
11 HB 2479 (4)(a) Monthly, the state treasurer must distribute the earnings credited to the investment income account to the state general fund except under (b), (c), and (d) of this subsection.
The 24/7 sobriety account, the Washington promise scholarship account, the Gina Grant Bull memorial p.
The 24/7 sobriety account, the Washington promise scholarship account, the Gina Grant Bull memorial legislative page scholarship account, the Rosa Franklin legislative internship program scholarship account, the Washington advanced college tuition payment program account, the Washington college savings program account, the accessible communities account, the Washington achieving a better life experience program account, the Washington career and college pathways innovation challenge program account, the community and technical college innovation account, the agricultural local fund, the American Indian scholarship endowment fund, the behavioral health loan repayment and scholarship program account, the Billy Frank Jr.
11 SHB 2479 legislative page scholarship account, the Rosa Franklin legislative internship program scholarship account, the Washington advanced college tuition payment program account, the Washington college savings program account, the accessible communities account, the Washington achieving a better life experience program account, the Washington career and college pathways innovation challenge program account, the community and technical college innovation account, the agricultural local fund, the American Indian scholarship endowment fund, the behavioral health loan repayment and scholarship program account, the Billy Frank Jr.
national statuary hall collection fund, the foster care scholarship endowment fund, the foster care endowed scholarship trust fund, the contract harvesting revolving account, the Washington state combined fund drive account, the county 911 excise tax account, the county road administration board emergency loan account, the toll collection account, the developmental disabilities endowment trust fund, the energy account, the energy facility site evaluation council account, the fair fund, the family and medical leave insurance account, the Fern Lodge maintenance account, the fish and wildlife federal lands revolving account, the natural resources federal lands revolving account, the food animal veterinarian conditional scholarship account, the forest health revolving account, the fruit and vegetable inspection account, the educator conditional scholarship account, the game farm alternative account, the GET ready for math and science scholarship account, the Washington global health technologies and product development account, the grain inspection revolving fund, the Washington history day account, the industrial insurance rainy day fund, the law enforcement officers' and firefighters' plan 2 expense fund, the local tourism promotion account, the low-income home rehabilitation account, the medication for people living with HIV rebate revenue account, the homeowner recovery account, the wage recovery account, the multiagency permitting team account, the northeast Washington wolf-livestock management account, the public use general aviation p.
national statuary hall collection fund, the foster care scholarship endowment fund, the foster care endowed scholarship trust fund, the contract harvesting revolving account, the Washington state combined fund drive account, the county 911 excise tax account, the county road administration board emergency loan account, the toll collection account, the developmental disabilities endowment trust fund, the energy account, the energy facility site evaluation council account, the fair fund, the family and medical leave insurance account, the Fern Lodge maintenance account, the fish and wildlife federal lands revolving account, the natural resources federal lands revolving account, the food animal veterinarian conditional scholarship account, the forest health revolving account, the fruit and vegetable inspection account, the educator conditional scholarship account, the game farm alternative account, the GET ready for math and science scholarship account, the Washington global health technologies and product development account, the grain inspection revolving fund, the Washington history day account, the industrial insurance rainy day fund, the law enforcement officers' and firefighters' plan 2 expense fund, the local tourism promotion account, the low-income home rehabilitation account, the medication for people living with HIV rebate revenue account, the homeowner recovery account, the wage recovery account, the multiagency permitting team account, the northeast Washington wolf-livestock management account, the public use general aviation airport loan revolving account, the regional transportation investment district account, the rural rehabilitation account, the Washington sexual assault kit account, the stadium and exhibition center account, the youth athletic facility account, the self- insurance revolving fund, the children's trust fund, the Washington horse racing commission Washington bred owners' bonus fund and breeder awards account, the Washington horse racing commission class p.
12 HB 2479 airport loan revolving account, the regional transportation investment district account, the rural rehabilitation account, the Washington sexual assault kit account, the stadium and exhibition center account, the youth athletic facility account, the self- insurance revolving fund, the children's trust fund, the Washington horse racing commission Washington bred owners' bonus fund and breeder awards account, the Washington horse racing commission class C purse fund account, the individual development account program account, the Washington horse racing commission operating account, the life sciences discovery fund, the Washington state library- archives building account, the reduced cigarette ignition propensity account, the center for deaf and hard of hearing youth account, the school for the blind account, the public employees' and retirees' insurance reserve fund, the school employees' benefits board insurance reserve fund, the public employees' and retirees' insurance account, the school employees' insurance account, the long-term services and supports trust account, the radiation perpetual maintenance fund, the Indian health improvement reinvestment account, the department of licensing tuition recovery trust fund, the student achievement council tuition recovery trust fund, the tuition recovery trust fund, the industrial insurance premium refund account, the mobile home park relocation fund, the natural resources deposit fund, the Washington state health insurance pool account, the federal forest revolving account, the Washington saves administrative trust account, and the library operations account.
12 SHB 2479 C purse fund account, the individual development account program account, the Washington horse racing commission operating account, the life sciences discovery fund, the Washington state library- archives building account, the reduced cigarette ignition propensity account, the center for deaf and hard of hearing youth account, the school for the blind account, the public employees' and retirees' insurance reserve fund, the school employees' benefits board insurance reserve fund, the public employees' and retirees' insurance account, the school employees' insurance account, the long-term services and supports trust account, the radiation perpetual maintenance fund, the Indian health improvement reinvestment account, the department of licensing tuition recovery trust fund, the student achievement council tuition recovery trust fund, the tuition recovery trust fund, the industrial insurance premium refund account, the mobile home park relocation fund, the natural resources deposit fund, the Washington state health insurance pool account, the federal forest revolving account, the Washington saves administrative trust account, and the library operations account.
(5) In conformance with Article II, section 37 of the state Constitution, no trust accounts or funds shall be allocated earnings without the specific affirmative directive of this section.
p.
13 HB 2479 (5) In conformance with Article II, section 37 of the state Constitution, no trust accounts or funds shall be allocated earnings without the specific affirmative directive of this section.
7.
8.
(1)(a) If a driver files a complaint with the department alleging that a transportation network company failed to provide any p.
(1)(a) If a driver files a complaint with the department alleging that a transportation network company failed to provide any compensation amounts due to the driver under RCW 49.46.300, the department shall investigate the complaint under this section.
13 SHB 2479 compensation amounts due to the driver under RCW 49.46.300, the department shall investigate the complaint under this section.
The compensation and interest owed must be calculated from the first date compensation was owed to the driver, except that the department may not order the transportation network company to pay any compensation and interest that were owed more than three years before the date the complaint was filed with the department.
The compensation and interest owed must be calculated from the first date compensation was owed to the driver, except that the department may not order the transportation network company to pay any compensation p.
14 HB 2479 and interest that were owed more than three years before the date the complaint was filed with the department.
(a) A civil penalty for a willful violation shall be not less than $1,000 or an amount equal to 10 percent of the total amount of p.
(a) A civil penalty for a willful violation shall be not less than $1,000 or an amount equal to 10 percent of the total amount of unpaid compensation per claimant, whichever is greater.
14 SHB 2479 unpaid compensation per claimant, whichever is greater.
(e) The department shall deposit civil penalties paid under this section in the ((supplemental pension fund established under RCW 51.44.033)) wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act.
(e) The department shall deposit civil penalties paid under this section in the ((supplemental pension fund established under RCW p.
15 HB 2479 51.44.033)) wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act.
and (b) p.
and (b) bar the driver from initiating or pursuing any court action or other judicial or administrative proceeding, including arbitration, based on the specific requirements addressed in the citation and notice of assessment.
15 SHB 2479 bar the driver from initiating or pursuing any court action or other judicial or administrative proceeding, including arbitration, based on the specific requirements addressed in the citation and notice of assessment.
(7) A notice of appeal filed with the director under this section shall stay the effectiveness of the citation and notice of assessment, the determination of compliance, or the assessment of a civil penalty pending final review of the appeal by the director as provided for in chapter 34.05 RCW.
p.
16 HB 2479 (7) A notice of appeal filed with the director under this section shall stay the effectiveness of the citation and notice of assessment, the determination of compliance, or the assessment of a civil penalty pending final review of the appeal by the director as provided for in chapter 34.05 RCW.
The hearing and review procedures shall be conducted in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, and the standard of review by the p.
The hearing and review procedures shall be conducted in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, and the standard of review by the administrative law judge of an appealed citation and notice of assessment, an appealed determination of compliance, or an appealed assessment of a civil penalty shall be de novo.
16 SHB 2479 administrative law judge of an appealed citation and notice of assessment, an appealed determination of compliance, or an appealed assessment of a civil penalty shall be de novo.
(b) the department shall vacate a citation and notice of assessment already issued by the department to the transportation network company;
(b) the department shall vacate a citation and notice of assessment already issued by the department to the transportation network p.
17 HB 2479 company;
(b) the right of the department to p.
(b) the right of the department to pursue any judicial, administrative, or other action available with respect to a driver that is identified as a result of a complaint for a violation of RCW 49.46.300;
17 SHB 2479 pursue any judicial, administrative, or other action available with respect to a driver that is identified as a result of a complaint for a violation of RCW 49.46.300;
The sheriff shall proceed upon the warrant in all respects and with like effect as prescribed by law with respect to execution or other process issued against rights or property upon judgment in a court of competent jurisdiction.
The sheriff shall proceed upon the warrant in all respects and with like effect as prescribed by law with respect to execution or other process issued against p.
18 HB 2479 rights or property upon judgment in a court of competent jurisdiction.
p.
(16)(a) The director may issue to any person, firm, corporation, other entity, municipal corporation, political subdivision of the state, public corporation, or any agency of the state, a notice and order to withhold and deliver property of any kind when he or she has reason to believe that there is in the possession of the person, firm, corporation, other entity, municipal corporation, political subdivision of the state, public corporation, or agency of the state, property that is or will become due, owing, or belonging to a transportation network company upon whom a notice of assessment has been served by the department for payments or civil penalties due to the department.
18 SHB 2479 (16)(a) The director may issue to any person, firm, corporation, other entity, municipal corporation, political subdivision of the state, public corporation, or any agency of the state, a notice and order to withhold and deliver property of any kind when he or she has reason to believe that there is in the possession of the person, firm, corporation, other entity, municipal corporation, political subdivision of the state, public corporation, or agency of the state, property that is or will become due, owing, or belonging to a transportation network company upon whom a notice of assessment has been served by the department for payments or civil penalties due to the department.
The director shall hold the property in trust for application on the transportation network company's indebtedness to the department, or for return without interest, in accordance with a final determination of a petition for review.
The director shall hold the property in trust for application on the transportation network company's indebtedness to p.
19 HB 2479 the department, or for return without interest, in accordance with a final determination of a petition for review.
If a notice is served upon a transportation network company and the property subject p.
If a notice is served upon a transportation network company and the property subject to it is compensation, the transportation network company may assert in the answer all exemptions provided for by chapter 6.27 RCW to which the compensation earner is entitled.
19 SHB 2479 to it is compensation, the transportation network company may assert in the answer all exemptions provided for by chapter 6.27 RCW to which the compensation earner is entitled.
(18) Whenever any transportation network company quits business, sells out, exchanges, or otherwise disposes of the transportation network company's business or stock of goods, any person who becomes a successor to the business becomes liable for the full amount of any outstanding citation and notice of assessment or penalty against the transportation network company's business under this chapter if, at the time of the conveyance of the business, the successor has:
(18) Whenever any transportation network company quits business, sells out, exchanges, or otherwise disposes of the transportation network company's business or stock of goods, any person who becomes a successor to the business becomes liable for the full amount of any p.
20 HB 2479 outstanding citation and notice of assessment or penalty against the transportation network company's business under this chapter if, at the time of the conveyance of the business, the successor has:
If the citation and notice of assessment or penalty is not paid in full by the transportation network company within 10 days of the date of p.
If the citation and notice of assessment or penalty is not paid in full by the transportation network company within 10 days of the date of the sale, exchange, or disposal, the successor is liable for the payment of the full amount of the citation and notice of assessment or penalty, and payment thereof by the successor must, to the extent thereof, be deemed a payment upon the purchase price.
20 SHB 2479 the sale, exchange, or disposal, the successor is liable for the payment of the full amount of the citation and notice of assessment or penalty, and payment thereof by the successor must, to the extent thereof, be deemed a payment upon the purchase price.
8.
9.
(c) The department shall send notice of either a citation and notice of assessment or a citation assessing a civil penalty or the closure letter to both the transportation network company and the driver by service of process or by United States mail using a method by which delivery of such written notice to the transportation network company can be tracked and confirmed.
(c) The department shall send notice of either a citation and notice of assessment or a citation assessing a civil penalty or the closure letter to both the transportation network company and the p.
21 HB 2479 driver by service of process or by United States mail using a method by which delivery of such written notice to the transportation network company can be tracked and confirmed.
(2) If the department's investigation finds that the driver's allegation cannot be substantiated, the department shall issue a p.
(2) If the department's investigation finds that the driver's allegation cannot be substantiated, the department shall issue a closure letter to the driver and the transportation network company detailing such finding.
21 SHB 2479 closure letter to the driver and the transportation network company detailing such finding.
(d) The department shall deposit civil penalties paid under this section in the ((supplemental pension fund established under RCW 51.44.033)) wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act.
(d) The department shall deposit civil penalties paid under this section in the ((supplemental pension fund established under RCW p.
22 HB 2479 51.44.033)) wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act.
p.
(4) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:
22 SHB 2479 (4) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:
The director shall conduct administrative review in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW.
The p.
23 HB 2479 director shall conduct administrative review in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW.
(10) Absent good cause, a transportation network company that fails to allow adequate inspection of records in an investigation by p.
(10) Absent good cause, a transportation network company that fails to allow adequate inspection of records in an investigation by the department under this section within a reasonable time period may not use such records in any appeal under such rules to challenge the correctness of any determination by the department of penalties assessed.
23 SHB 2479 the department under this section within a reasonable time period may not use such records in any appeal under such rules to challenge the correctness of any determination by the department of penalties assessed.
9.
10.
(3) It is unlawful for a transportation network company to take any adverse action against a driver because the driver has exercised their rights provided under RCW 49.46.300 and 49.46.210(5).
p.
24 HB 2479 (3) It is unlawful for a transportation network company to take any adverse action against a driver because the driver has exercised their rights provided under RCW 49.46.300 and 49.46.210(5).
p.
(4) Adverse action means any action taken or threatened by a transportation network company against a driver for the driver's exercise of rights under RCW 49.46.300 and 49.46.210(5).
24 SHB 2479 (4) Adverse action means any action taken or threatened by a transportation network company against a driver for the driver's exercise of rights under RCW 49.46.300 and 49.46.210(5).
(9) If the department's investigation finds that the transportation network company retaliated against the driver, and the complaint is not otherwise resolved, the department may, at its discretion, notify the transportation network company that the department intends to issue a citation and notice of assessment, and may provide up to 30 days after the date of such notification for the transportation network company to take corrective action to remedy the retaliatory action.
p.
If the complaint is not otherwise resolved, p.
25 HB 2479 (9) If the department's investigation finds that the transportation network company retaliated against the driver, and the complaint is not otherwise resolved, the department may, at its discretion, notify the transportation network company that the department intends to issue a citation and notice of assessment, and may provide up to 30 days after the date of such notification for the transportation network company to take corrective action to remedy the retaliatory action.
25 SHB 2479 then the department shall issue a citation and notice of assessment.
If the complaint is not otherwise resolved, then the department shall issue a citation and notice of assessment.
(11) During an investigation of the driver's retaliation complaint, if the department discovers information suggesting alleged violations by the transportation network company of the driver's other rights under this chapter, and all applicable rules, the department may investigate and take appropriate enforcement action without requiring the driver to file a new or separate complaint.
(11) During an investigation of the driver's retaliation complaint, if the department discovers information suggesting alleged violations by the transportation network company of the driver's other rights under this chapter, and all applicable rules, the p.
26 HB 2479 department may investigate and take appropriate enforcement action without requiring the driver to file a new or separate complaint.
If the department determines that the transportation network company violated additional rights of the driver under this chapter, and all applicable rules, the transportation network company may be subject to additional enforcement actions for the violation of p.
If the department determines that the transportation network company violated additional rights of the driver under this chapter, and all applicable rules, the transportation network company may be subject to additional enforcement actions for the violation of such rights.
26 SHB 2479 such rights.
(18) Collections of amounts owed for unpaid citations and notices of assessment, as detailed in this section, will be handled pursuant to the procedures outlined in RCW 49.48.086.
p.
(19) A person, firm, or corporation aggrieved by a citation and notice of assessment or a determination of compliance may, within 30 days after the date of such determination, submit a request for reconsideration to the department setting forth the grounds for seeking such reconsideration, or submit an appeal to the director pursuant to the procedures outlined in subsection (22) of this p.
27 HB 2479 (18) Collections of amounts owed for unpaid citations and notices of assessment, as detailed in this section, will be handled pursuant to the procedures outlined in RCW 49.48.086.
27 SHB 2479 section.
(19) A person, firm, or corporation aggrieved by a citation and notice of assessment or a determination of compliance may, within 30 days after the date of such determination, submit a request for reconsideration to the department setting forth the grounds for seeking such reconsideration, or submit an appeal to the director pursuant to the procedures outlined in subsection (22) of this section.
(b) A notice of appeal filed with the director under this section shall stay the effectiveness of the citation and notice of assessment or the determination of compliance pending final review of the appeal by the director as provided for in chapter 34.05 RCW.
p.
28 HB 2479 (b) A notice of appeal filed with the director under this section shall stay the effectiveness of the citation and notice of assessment or the determination of compliance pending final review of the appeal by the director as provided for in chapter 34.05 RCW.
The hearing and review procedures shall be conducted in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, and the standard of review by the administrative law judge of an appealed citation and notice of p.
The hearing and review procedures shall be conducted in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, and the standard of review by the administrative law judge of an appealed citation and notice of assessment or determination of compliance shall be de novo.
28 SHB 2479 assessment or determination of compliance shall be de novo.
10.
11.
(1) Any employer that coerces an employee in furtherance of the employer committing a violation of wage payment requirements as defined in chapter 49.48 RCW, condition of labor requirements as defined in chapter 49.12 RCW, or any violations under chapter 49.30 RCW, including rules issued by the department pursuant to chapter 49.30 RCW, is subject to a civil penalty under this section, in addition to any other penalty that may be imposed by the department against an employer for those violations.
(1) Any employer that coerces an employee in furtherance of the employer committing a violation of wage payment requirements as defined in chapter 49.48 RCW, condition of labor requirements as p.
29 HB 2479 defined in chapter 49.12 RCW, or any violations under chapter 49.30 RCW, including rules issued by the department pursuant to chapter 49.30 RCW, is subject to a civil penalty under this section, in addition to any other penalty that may be imposed by the department against an employer for those violations.
(2) A worker who believes the worker was subject to coercion by the worker's employer based on the worker's immigration status may p.
(2) A worker who believes the worker was subject to coercion by the worker's employer based on the worker's immigration status may file a complaint with the department within 180 days of the alleged coercive action.
29 SHB 2479 file a complaint with the department within 180 days of the alleged coercive action.
(5) The department shall deposit all civil penalties paid under this section in the ((supplemental pension fund established under RCW 51.44.033)) wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act.
p.
30 HB 2479 (5) The department shall deposit all civil penalties paid under this section in the ((supplemental pension fund established under RCW 51.44.033)) wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act.
(b) For purposes of this subsection, "consumer price index" means, for any calendar year, that year's average consumer price p.
(b) For purposes of this subsection, "consumer price index" means, for any calendar year, that year's average consumer price index for the Seattle, Washington area for urban wage earners and clerical workers, all items, compiled by the bureau of labor statistics, United States department of labor.
30 SHB 2479 index for the Seattle, Washington area for urban wage earners and clerical workers, all items, compiled by the bureau of labor statistics, United States department of labor.
Any party who seeks to challenge an initial order shall file a petition for administrative review with the director within 30 days after service of the initial order.
Any party who seeks to challenge an initial p.
31 HB 2479 order shall file a petition for administrative review with the director within 30 days after service of the initial order.
p.
(f) An employer who fails to allow adequate inspection of records in an investigation by the department under this section within a reasonable time period may not use such records in any appeal under such rules to challenge the correctness of any determination by the department of penalties assessed.
31 SHB 2479 (f) An employer who fails to allow adequate inspection of records in an investigation by the department under this section within a reasonable time period may not use such records in any appeal under such rules to challenge the correctness of any determination by the department of penalties assessed.
11.
Section 5 of this act expires July 1, 2030.
NEW SECTION.
Sec.
Section 6 of this act takes effect July 1, 2030.
Section 6 of this act expires July 1, 2030.
RCW 49.48.125 (Repeat willful violators— Civil penalties) and 2010 c 42 s 6 are each repealed.
Section 7 of this act takes effect July 1, 2030.
32 SHB 2479
32 HB 2479
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How this bill changes current law

6 changes Share ↗

Compared against the Revised Code of Washington as published AI-generated reading aid — verify against the official bill.

This bill amends 5 section(s) of the Revised Code of Washington: RCW 43.79A.040; RCW 49.46.320; RCW 49.46.330; RCW 49.46.340; RCW 49.48.125.

  • RCW 43.79A.040

    the game farm alternative ce scholarship account, the and product development nd, the Washington history rainy day fund, the law plan 2 expense fund, the income home rehabilitation g with HIV rebate revenue the wage recovery account,

    amended

  • RCW 43.79A.040

    Rosa Franklin legislative the Washington advanced , the Washington college communities account, the ience program account, the novation challenge program ge innovation account, the dian scholarship endowment nt and scholarship program uary hall collection fund, d, the foster care endowed vesting revolving account, account, the county 911 nistration board emergency count, the developmental nergy account, the energy the fair fund, the family e Fern Lodge maintenance nds revolving account, the account, the food animal count, the forest health le inspection account, the the game farm alternative ce scholarship account, the and product development nd, the Washington history rainy day fund, the law plan 2 expense fund, the income home rehabilitation g with HIV rebate revenue the wage recovery account,

    amended

  • RCW 49.46.320

    supplemental pension fund established under RCW 51.44.033 → unpaid co nsation per claimant, whichever is greater. The maximum civil pe ty for a willful violation of requirements in RCW 49.46.300 ll be $20,000 per claimant. (b) department may not assess a civil penalty if the transport n network company reasonably relied on: (i) A rule related t ny requirements in this section; (ii) a written order, ruling, a oval, opinion, advice, determination, or interpretation of the d tor; or (iii) an interpretive or administrative policy issued b he department and filed with the office of the code reviser. accordance with the department's retention schedule obligatio under chapter 40.14 RCW, the department shall maintain a complete d accurate record of all written orders, rulings, approvals pinions, advice, determinations, and interpretations for purposes determining whether a transportation network company is immune fr ivil penalties under this subsection (3)(b). (c) T department shall waive any civil penalty assessed against a transp ation network company under this section if the transport n network company is not a repeat willful violator, and the direc determines that the transportation network company has provided yment to the driver of all compensation that the departmen etermined that the transportation network company owed to the drive including interest, within 30 days of the transportation network c any's receipt of the citation and notice of assessment from the rtment. (d) department may waive or reduce at any time a civil penalty a ssed under this section if the director determines that the trans tation network company paid all compensation and interest owed to a ver. (e) T department shall deposit civil penalties paid under this section the ⟦INS⟧wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act

    amended

  • RCW 49.46.330

    supplemental pension fund established under RCW 51.44.033 → closure l er to the driver and the transportation network company detailing h finding. (3) I he department determines that the violation was a willful violation nd the transportation network company fails to take correctiv action, the department may order the transportation network c any to pay the department a civil penalty as specified in (a) of th ubsection. (a) A tation assessing a civil penalty for a willful violation will be 000 for each willful violation. For a repeat willful violator, e citation assessing a civil penalty will not be less than $2,0 for each repeat willful violation per claimant, but no greater t $20,000 for each repeat willful violation per claimant. (b) T department may not issue a citation assessing a civil penalty i he transportation network company reasonably relied on: (i) A itten order, ruling, approval, opinion, advice, determina , or interpretation of the director; or (ii) an interpret or administrative policy issued by the department and filed wit he office of the code reviser. In accordance with the departmen retention schedule obligations under chapter 40.14 RCW, the depar nt shall maintain a complete and accurate record of all written o rs, rulings, approvals, opinions, advice, determinations, and int etations for purposes of determining whether a transport n network company is immune from civil penalties under this subs on (3)(b). (c) department may, at any time, waive or reduce a civil penalty a ssed under this section if the director determines that the tran tation network company has taken corrective action to resolve t iolation. (d) T department shall deposit civil penalties paid under this section the ⟦INS⟧wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act

    amended

  • RCW 49.46.340

    supplemental pension fund established under RCW 51.44.033 → such rig If the department discovers information alleging the transport n network company retaliated against or otherwise violated ghts of other drivers under this chapter, and all applicabl ules, the department may launch further investigation under th chapter, and all applicable rules, without requiring additiona mplaints to be filed. (12) department may prioritize retaliation investigations as needed to ow for timely resolution of complaints. (13) hing in this section impedes the department's ability to investiga nder the authority prescribed in RCW 49.48.040. (14) hing in this section precludes a driver's right to pursue private l action, if any exists. (15) f the department's investigation finds that a transport n network company retaliated against a driver, pursuant to the pr dures outlined in this section, the department may order the tran tation network company to pay the department a civil penalty. civil penalty for a transportation network company's retaliato action will not be less than $1,000 or an amount equal to 10 percen f the total amount of unpaid earnings attributable to the retaliato action per claimant, whichever is greater. The maximum civil pe y for a transportation network company's retaliatory action sh be $20,000 per claimant for the first violation, and $40,000 f ach repeat violation. (16) department may, at any time, waive or reduce any civil penalty a ssed against a transportation network company under this section i he department determines that the transportation network company h aken corrective action to remedy the retaliatory action. (17) department will deposit civil penalties paid under this section the ⟦INS⟧wage recovery account created under section 3 of this act

    amended

  • RCW 49.48.125

    --- END ---

    amended

Action History

  1. Effective date 6/11/2026*.

  2. Chapter 53, 2026 Laws.

  3. Governor signed.

  4. Delivered to Governor.

  5. President signed.

  6. Speaker signed.

  7. Third reading, passed; yeas, 49; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 0.

  8. Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.

  9. Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.

  10. Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.

  11. Minority; without recommendation.

  12. WM - Majority; do pass.

  13. Executive action taken in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means at 10:30 AM.

  14. Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means at 2:30 PM.

  15. Referred to Ways & Means.

  16. Minority; do not pass.

  17. And refer to Ways & Means.

  18. LC - Majority; do pass.

  19. Executive action taken in the Senate Committee on Labor & Commerce at 10:45 AM.

  20. Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Labor & Commerce at 10:30 AM.

  21. First reading, referred to Labor & Commerce.

  22. Third reading, passed; yeas, 94; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 4.

  23. Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.

  24. 2nd substitute bill substituted (APP 26).

  25. Rules Committee relieved of further consideration. Placed on second reading.

  26. Referred to Rules 2 Review.

  27. APP - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.

  28. Executive action taken in the House Committee on Appropriations at 9:00 AM.

  29. Public hearing in the House Committee on Appropriations at 10:30 AM.

  30. Referred to Appropriations.

  31. LAWS - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.

  32. Executive action taken in the House Committee on Labor & Workplace Standards at 10:30 AM.

  33. Public hearing in the House Committee on Labor & Workplace Standards at 10:30 AM.

  34. First reading, referred to Labor & Workplace Standards.

Sponsors

Sponsorship breakdown

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1 sponsors · 16 co-sponsors · 134 not signed on

Sponsors (1)

Co-sponsors (16)

Not signed on (134)

134 members have not signed on to this bill.

Show all 134 →

"Not signed on" means a member has not sponsored or co-sponsored this bill — it does not imply opposition. Members flagged Voted No have a recorded No vote on this bill.

Whip count is in markup. Polling the chamber and every recorded vote this session. Only the first open is slow. It’s instant for you after this. Calling the roll · Tallying · Engrossing

Votes

3rd Reading & Final Passage (#24)

Passed 49 Yea · 0 Nay
Party YeaNayPresentNot Voting
Democrat 30000
Republican 19000
Total 49000
% of votes cast 100%0%0%0%
How each member voted (49)
Member Party Vote
Adrian Cortes Democrat Yea
Annette Cleveland Democrat Yea
Bob Hasegawa Democrat Yea
Claire Wilson Democrat Yea
Claudia Kauffman Democrat Yea
Deborah Krishnadasan Democrat Yea
Derek Stanford Democrat Yea
Drew Hansen Democrat Yea
Emily Alvarado Democrat Yea
Jamie Pedersen Democrat Yea
Javier Valdez Democrat Yea
Jesse Salomon Democrat Yea
Jessica Bateman Democrat Yea
John Lovick Democrat Yea
June Robinson Democrat Yea
Lisa Wellman Democrat Yea
Liz Lovelett Democrat Yea
Manka Dhingra Democrat Yea
Marcus Riccelli Democrat Yea
Marko Liias Democrat Yea
Mike Chapman Democrat Yea
Noel Frame Democrat Yea
Rebecca Saldaña Democrat Yea
Sharon Shewmake Democrat Yea
Steve Conway Democrat Yea
T'wina Nobles Democrat Yea
Tina Orwall Democrat Yea
Vandana Slatter Democrat Yea
Victoria Hunt Democrat Yea
Yasmin Trudeau Democrat Yea
Chris Gildon Republican Yea
Curtis King Republican Yea
Drew MacEwen Republican Yea
Jeff Holy Republican Yea
Jeff Wilson Republican Yea
Jim McCune Republican Yea
John Braun Republican Yea
Judy Warnick Republican Yea
Keith Goehner Republican Yea
Keith Wagoner Republican Yea
Leonard Christian Republican Yea
Mark Schoesler Republican Yea
Matt Boehnke Republican Yea
Nikki Torres Republican Yea
Paul Harris Republican Yea
Perry Dozier Republican Yea
Phil Fortunato Republican Yea
Ron Muzzall Republican Yea
Shelly Short Republican Yea

Official roll call →

3rd Reading & Final Passage (#24)

Passed 94 Yea · 0 Nay · 4 Other
Party YeaNayPresentNot Voting
Republican 35003
Democrat 59001
Total 94004
% of votes cast 96%0%0%4%
How each member voted (98)
Member Party Vote
Adam Bernbaum Democrat Yea
Adison Richards Democrat Yea
Adrian Cortes Democrat Yea
Alex Ramel Democrat Yea
Alicia Rule Democrat Yea
Amy Walen Democrat Yea
April Berg Democrat Yea
Beth Doglio Democrat Yea
Brandy Donaghy Democrat Yea
Brianna Thomas Democrat Yea
Chipalo Street Democrat Yea
Chris Stearns Democrat Yea
Cindy Ryu Democrat Yea
Clyde Shavers Democrat Yea
Dan Bronoske Democrat Yea
Darya Farivar Democrat Yea
Dave Paul Democrat Yea
David Hackney Democrat Yea
Davina Duerr Democrat Yea
Debra Entenman Democrat Yea
Debra Lekanoff Democrat Yea
Edwin Obras Democrat Yea
Gerry Pollet Democrat Yea
Greg Nance Democrat Yea
Jake Fey Democrat Yea
Jamila Taylor Democrat Yea
Janice Zahn Democrat Yea
Javier Valdez Democrat Yea
Joe Fitzgibbon Democrat Yea
Joe Timmons Democrat Yea
Julia Reed Democrat Yea
Kristine Reeves Democrat Yea
Larry Springer Democrat Yea
Lauren Davis Democrat Yea
Laurie Jinkins Democrat Yea
Lillian Ortiz-Self Democrat Yea
Lisa Callan Democrat Yea
Lisa Parshley Democrat Yea
Liz Berry Democrat Yea
Mari Leavitt Democrat Yea
Mary Fosse Democrat Yea
Melanie Morgan Democrat Yea
Mia Gregerson Democrat Yea
Monica Jurado Stonier Democrat Yea
My-Linh Thai Democrat Yea
Natasha Hill Democrat Yea
Nicole Macri Democrat Yea
Osman Salahuddin Democrat Yea
Roger Goodman Democrat Yea
Sharlett Mena Democrat Yea
Sharon Tomiko Santos Democrat Yea
Sharon Wylie Democrat Yea
Shaun Scott Democrat Yea
Shelley Kloba Democrat Yea
Steve Bergquist Democrat Yea
Steve Tharinger Democrat Not Voting
Strom Peterson Democrat Yea
Tarra Simmons Democrat Yea
Timm Ormsby Democrat Yea
Zach Hall Democrat Yea
Alex Ybarra Republican Yea
Andrew Barkis Republican Yea
Andrew Engell Republican Yea
April Connors Republican Yea
Brian Burnett Republican Yea
Carolyn Eslick Republican Not Voting
Chris Corry Republican Not Voting
Cyndy Jacobsen Republican Yea
Dan Griffey Republican Yea
David Stuebe Republican Yea
Deb Manjarrez Republican Yea
Drew Stokesbary Republican Yea
Ed Orcutt Republican Yea
Gloria Mendoza Republican Yea
Hunter Abell Republican Yea
Jenny Graham Republican Yea
Jeremie Dufault Republican Yea
Jim Walsh Republican Yea
Joe Schmick Republican Yea
Joel McEntire Republican Yea
John Ley Republican Yea
Joshua Penner Republican Yea
Kevin Waters Republican Yea
Mark Klicker Republican Yea
Mary Dye Republican Yea
Matt Marshall Republican Yea
Michael Keaton Republican Yea
Mike Steele Republican Yea
Mike Volz Republican Yea
Peter Abbarno Republican Yea
Rob Chase Republican Yea
Sam Low Republican Yea
Skyler Rude Republican Yea
Stephanie Barnard Republican Yea
Stephanie McClintock Republican Yea
Suzanne Schmidt Republican Yea
Tom Dent Republican Not Voting
Travis Couture Republican Yea

Official roll call →

Subjects

labor
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Frequently asked questions

Who sponsors HB 2479?
HB 2479 is sponsored by Lisa Callan (Democrat), Greg Nance (Democrat), Nicole Macri (Democrat), Gerry Pollet (Democrat), Edwin Obras (Democrat), Dan Bronoske (Democrat), Beth Doglio (Democrat), Alex Ramel (Democrat), Roger Goodman (Democrat), Lisa Parshley (Democrat), Chris Stearns (Democrat), Janice Zahn (Democrat), Osman Salahuddin (Democrat), Liz Berry (Democrat), Suzanne Schmidt (Republican), Mary Fosse (Democrat), and Julio Cortes (Democrat).
What is the current status of HB 2479?
This bill has been enacted into law. Introduced January 14, 2026. Enacted.
Where can I track HB 2479?
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