Washington Mandates 60-Day Warning for Major Layoffs and Closures
In April 2025, Washington State enacted Senate Bill 5525, requiring large employers to give a 60-day notice before mass layoffs or business closures. Modeled after the federal WARN Act but with stronger provisions, the law applies to companies with 50 or more full-time employees. Employers must notify affected workers, their unions, and the Employment Security Department. The notice must include the reason for the action, affected job titles, and closure or layoff dates. Exce
Washington’s Paid Sick Leave Law Offers New Protections in 2025
Washington’s landmark paid sick leave law, SB 5793, takes effect on January 1, 2025, expanding worker protections. Employees, including...
2025 Brings New Minimum Wage and Employment Thresholds in Washington
Starting Jan. 1, 2025, Washington’s minimum wage rises to $16.66 per hour, impacting workers and employers statewide. Youth wages (ages 14-15) will be $14.16. Higher thresholds apply in cities like Seattle. Overtime-exempt employees now require a minimum annual salary of $69,305.60 for small businesses and $77,968.80 for larger ones. Rideshare drivers will see updated minimums, including $5.95 for trips in Seattle. Additionally, non-compete clauses apply only to employees ear
Celebrating Excellence in Advocacy: Vera P. Fomina's Recognition in Washington Women Lawyers October Newsletter
We are pleased to announce that Skidmore & Fomina's founding member, Vera P. Fomina, was featured in our King County Washington Women Lawyers October Newsletter! Vera is a dynamic advocate who brings a wealth of experience to employment law, representing employees in discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and wage disputes. Known for her dedication and impressive track record in federal and state courts, she tirelessly pursues justice for her clients. Vera’s approa
Minimum Wage and Fair Pay for Gig Workers in Washington
Washington State is considering groundbreaking regulations to ensure gig economy workers, such as rideshare drivers and couriers, earn fair wages. The state’s proposals include mandating a minimum wage equivalent despite their independent contractor status. Pay transparency is another focal point, as lawmakers seek to require platforms to clearly explain how earnings are calculated, including fees and deductions. These changes aim to prevent worker exploitation and ensure fai
Jury Awards $237 Million in Landmark Workplace Discrimination Case
In a historic ruling, a Yakima jury awarded over $237 million to Tahvio Gratton, a former UPS driver who sued the company for racial discrimination and a hostile work environment. Gratton alleged he faced repeated mistreatment, including being called racial slurs by a supervisor and receiving less favorable assignments. Despite previous grievances, he was fired in 2021 over a disputed sexual harassment allegation. The jury awarded Gratton $39.6 million for emotional distress
Updates to Paid Sick Leave Law Expand Employee Rights
Starting January 1, 2025, Washington's Paid Sick Leave ("PSL") law will broaden its scope, expanding the definition of "family" to include individuals residing in the employee’s home and those with a care-based relationship. Additionally, "child" now consists of the spouse of the employee’s child. Employees can also use paid sick leave for school closures due to emergencies declared by the government beyond health-related reasons.
New Protections Under Washington’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act
Effective July 1, 2025, Washington’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act ("EPOA") will extend protections to cover additional categories,...
King County's $20.29 Minimum Wage Ordinance
Effective January 1, 2025, a new minimum wage ordinance will require all employers in unincorporated King County to pay $20.29 per hour,...
Supreme Court Ruling Challenges Federal Employment Regulations
A recent Supreme Court ruling shifts power from the executive branch to the judiciary, overturning the 1984 Chevron doctrine. This change...
