Washington State’s amended Fair Chance Act, effective July 1, 2026, introduces significant changes for employers regarding criminal background checks. Employers must now wait until after extending a conditional job offer before inquiring about criminal history. They are prohibited from taking adverse actions based solely on arrest records or juvenile convictions. If considering an adverse action based on adult convictions, employers must conduct an individualized assessment and provide written notices, including the opportunity for applicants to respond. Penalties for noncompliance have increased, with fines escalating for repeated violations.
