Businesses are encouraged to review their job descriptions and hiring practices as new Washington state requirements related to hiring and job postings are now in effect.
The updated rules, adopted by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) under the Equal Pay and Opportunities Act, took effect May 22 following approval by state lawmakers in 2025.
Key updates include:
- Employers may only require a valid driver’s license when driving is an essential function of the position. Job postings may not list a driver’s license as a requirement unless driving is directly tied to the job duties.
- Additional guidance on salary and wage disclosure requirements, including what qualifies as a job posting, who is considered an applicant, and how pay ranges must be communicated.
- Clarified procedures related to complaints, investigations, appeals, and resolution of violations through L&I.
More information is available through the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
This information was highlighted in a recent article by the Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business.