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Bill

SB 5104

Protecting employees from coercion in the workplace based on immigration status.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington law prohibits employers from using immigration status threats or disclosure demands to coerce employees, effective July 1, 2025.

Effective date 7/1/2025.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 5104

Legislative bill overview

SB 5104 prohibits Washington employers from coercing, threatening, or intimidating employees based on their immigration status or citizenship. The law also prevents employers from requiring employees to disclose immigration information or threatening to report immigration status to authorities as a means of workplace control.

Why is this important

This bill addresses a documented pattern where undocumented workers face wage theft, unsafe conditions, and labor violations because employers exploit deportation fears to suppress complaints. By removing immigration status as a leverage tool, the law aims to enable vulnerable workers to report wage violations, safety hazards, and other abuses without fear of retaliation through deportation threats.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions remain about how robustly the law will be enforced and what penalties employers face, which could affect its practical deterrent value
  • Definitional boundaries: Disputes may arise over what constitutes "coercion" versus legitimate employer inquiries about work authorization for I-9 compliance purposes
  • Business compliance concerns: Some employers may worry about distinguishing between lawful verification requirements and unlawful coercion, potentially creating compliance uncertainty

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

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