EVERETT—As more youth enter the workforce, House Bill 1644, sponsored by Rep. Mary Fosse (D-Everett), increases penalties for companies that violate child labor laws, and makes it easier for the state to bar problem employers (a.k.a. bad actors) from hiring young workers. Companies with three or more serious, repeat or willful safety or youth labor violations are now prohibited from hiring minors.
Rep. Fosse serves as the Vice Chair of the House Labor & Workplace Standards Committee. In 2024, approximately a third of Washingtonians ages 16 to 19 held jobs.
“With more minors entering the workforce than ever before, it’s our responsibility to ensure that our laws protect them from harm and exploitation,” said Rep. Fosse. “This legislation modernizes outdated systems, holds bad actors accountable, and puts safety first for our youngest workers.”
Governor Ferguson signed the bill on International Workers’ Memorial Day, April 28, at the Western Washington Sheet Metal Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee’s DuPont campus.
“As more youth enter Washington’s workforce, protecting their safety must be a top priority,” said Governor Bob Ferguson. “This legislation helps ensure the state has the tools needed to hold employers who exploit them accountable.”
Washington minor workers’ injury claims increased 60% between 2009 and 2023, according to the Department of Labor & Industries; there were more than 750 Washington minors who suffered workplace injuries in 2023 alone.
HB 1644 sets minimum penalties for youth labor violations, ranging from $100 for each time a company fails to obtain a minor work permit, and a minimum of at least $71,000 for any violation resulting in the serious injury or death of a minor.
Beginning on July 1, 2027, and every two years after, the Department of Labor & Industries must adjust the penalty amounts for inflation.
The new law also requires L&I to conduct health and safety inspections before issuing certain minor work permits.
House Bill 1644 takes effect on July 1st, 2026. Co-sponsors for the bill are Representatives Ortiz-Self, Parshley, Stonier, Taylor, Shavers, Davis, Obras, Macri, Berg, Hill, Street, Berry, Reed, Cortes, Ramel, Thomas, Goodman, Ormsby, Salahuddin, Scott, Gregerson, Thai and Simmons.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
