Washington State Enacts New Laws Effective 2026

Washington State will introduce a series of new laws effective January 1, 2026, impacting workers, families, and various sectors. This legislation was passed by the Washington State Legislature earlier this year. Here’s an overview of key changes.

Minimum Wage Increase

The state’s minimum wage will rise to $17.13 per hour. This adjustment reflects annual inflation rates and state law requirements. The increase also affects salary exemptions related to overtime pay.

Changes to Paid Family & Medical Leave

Effective January 1, 2026, updates to the Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) program will require employers with 25 or more employees to provide job protection for eligible employees. To qualify, employees must have 180 calendar days of employment without a minimum hours requirement. Additionally, the PFML premium rate will increase to 1.13% for 2026, funding enhanced benefits.

Updates to Family Law Standards

The family law code in Washington will undergo significant revisions that affect child support calculations.

• Expanded Child Support Schedule: The guidelines for determining child support will now cover combined incomes up to $50,000 per month, expanding beyond the previous limit of $12,000.
• Higher Self-Support Reserve: The self-support reserve will increase from 125% to 180% of the federal poverty guideline for single-parent households.
• Support for Families: Parents cannot be ordered to transfer amounts that would push their income below the new reserve, except in specific circumstances.
• Revised Income Standards: Gross income calculation guidelines will be standardized, improving transparency in support orders.

Victims’ Rights Protections

New provisions under RCW 7.69.030 will enhance rights for victims, survivors, and witnesses in both criminal and civil cases.

• Written Notice of Rights: Victims will receive written summaries of their rights, including contact details for local victim services.
• Case Updates: Law enforcement must keep victims informed about developments in their cases.
• Protection Services: Victims will be informed of available protections and provided support services during judicial proceedings.
• Participation Rights: Victims can attend hearings and submit impact statements that will be part of court records.
• Restitution Rights: Victims can seek restitution even if the offender is incarcerated, with logistical support offered for attending court.

Tax and Consumer Policy Changes

Beginning January 1, 2026, all nicotine products will be subject to Washington’s tobacco products tax. This expansion aims to bolster funding for public health initiatives.

Real Estate and Property Law Reform

The Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act (WUCIOA) will take effect statewide, impacting governance structures for condominiums and shared communities starting January 1, 2026.

Cannabis Licensing Rules

The cannabis licensing framework will remain active as legislative changes affect producers, processors, and retailers under RCW 69.50.325.

The Washington State Legislature will reconvene on January 12, 2026, for a 60-day session to address budgetary and policy matters.