OLYMPIA – With the stroke of a pen, Governor Ferguson today signed House Bill 1644 into law. Sponsored by Rep. Mary Fosse (D-Everett), Vice Chair of the House Labor & Workplace Standards Committee, the new law makes Washington a national leader in child labor protections.
“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 Fosse “This legislation modernizes outdated systems, holds bad actors accountable, and puts safety first for our youngest workers.”
In 2023, more than 750 Washington minors suffered workplace injuries— highlighting a pressing need for reform in labor regulations. In response to this alarming trend, House Bill 1644 aims to strengthen protections for young workers by imposing harsher penalties for child labor violations, setting minimum fines, and preventing employers with serious infractions from hiring minors. Additionally, the bill prohibits contractors whose minor work permits have been revoked from bidding on public works projects. These measures are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of young workers in the state.
The law also strengthens the oversight process by requiring Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) site visits before granting variances, implementing inflation-adjusted penalties, and setting clear statutory standards for work permit issuance and revocation.
HB 1644 takes effect on July 1st, 2026. Learn more and review today’s bill signing on TVW.