Concerning unemployment insurance benefits for workers separated from employment as a result of employer-initiated layoffs or workforce reductions.

 H-2641.1

HOUSE BILL 2264

State of Washington

69th Legislature

2026 Regular Session

By Representatives Berry, Scott, Reed, Obras, Parshley, Thomas, Ormsby, Fosse, and Pollet

Prefiled 01/06/26. Read first time 01/12/26. Referred to Committee on Labor & Workplace Standards.

AN ACT Relating to unemployment insurance benefits for workers separated from employment as a result of employer-initiated layoffs or workforce reductions; and adding a new section to chapter 50.20 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION. Sec. 1. A new section is added to chapter 50.20 RCW to read as follows:

(1) An individual separated from employment on or after June 14, 2026, is deemed to be unemployed through no fault of their own if the commissioner finds that: