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Employer defined
“Employer” includes any person acting in the interest of an employer, directly or indirectly, who employs eight or more persons. It does not include any religious or sectarian organization not organized for private profit.
Unlawful employment practices
The unlawful employment practices and exemptions are similar to those under the federal Guidelines on Discrimination Because of Religion. The state law does not include provisions that require employers to reasonably accommodate employee’s religious beliefs. However, the federal requirements would still apply.
Washington’s law also prohibits employers from requiring employees to disclose their sincerely held religious affiliations or beliefs, except where the belief or affiliation must be revealed as part of a request for a religious accommodation.
Posting
The state provides a poster titled “Washington Law Prohibits Discrimination in Employment.”
Contact
Washington Human Rights Commission
Regulations
RCW Title 49, Chapter 49.60, Discrimination - Human Rights Commission
WAC Title 162, Human Rights Commission
Contact
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Regulations
29 CFR Part 1605, Guidelines on Discrimination Because of Religion