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Bill

Bill

HB 1682

Concerning part-time workers in the unemployment insurance system.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Berry and 7 co-sponsors

Expands unemployment insurance eligibility for part-time workers in Washington, advancing through legislative review with mixed support and unresolved fiscal questions.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HB 1682

Legislative bill overview

HB 1682 modifies Washington's unemployment insurance system to expand or improve coverage for part-time workers. The bill passed out of the Labor & Workplace Standards Committee with a substitute version, though it faced minority opposition. It is currently under review by the Appropriations Committee, suggesting fiscal implications.

Why is this important

Part-time workers have historically faced barriers to unemployment insurance eligibility, often due to earnings thresholds or hour requirements that favor full-time employment patterns. Changes to part-time worker protections could affect hundreds of thousands of Washington workers and have budget implications for the state's unemployment insurance trust fund.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Expanding UI eligibility typically increases claims and state payouts, requiring analysis of how costs are distributed between employers, workers, and general revenues
  • Definition and eligibility standards: Disagreement over what constitutes "part-time" status and what earnings or hour thresholds should apply (evidenced by the 3-way committee split)
  • Labor market effects: Debate over whether expanded UI benefits incentivize reduced work hours or create disincentives for employers to maintain part-time positions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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