Newsletter — February 27, 2025 | |
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POLICY
ON THE LOCAL FRONT
RETAIL THEFT & PUBLIC SAFETY
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WA pay transparency law faces legal challenges and proposed amendments
Washington’s pay transparency law, designed to close the gender wage gap by requiring salary ranges in job postings, is at the center of controversy. Since its enactment in 2023, approximately 250 lawsuits have been filed, with the Seattle-based law firm Emery Reddy leading the charge. Business groups argue that a “cottage industry” has emerged, with “serial” job applicants filing lawsuits not to secure jobs, but to benefit financially from legal settlements.
In response, state legislators are considering SB 5408, which would provide employers a 2-week grace period to correct non-compliant job postings before facing legal action. This proposed reform is similar to California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) reform which provides employers the “right to cure” within 33 days of alleged violations before filing a civil lawsuit. California’s changes aimed to curb frivolous lawsuits while maintaining worker protections.
In mid-February, the Washington Supreme Court is reviewing how to define a “job applicant” under the law, a decision that will clarify whether an applicant needs to possess bona fide for a position to be a bona fide job applicant in a civil suit. With legislative and judicial decisions pending, Washington employers should stay informed on compliance requirements to avoid legal risks. The outcome of these discussions could shape the future of pay transparency enforcement in the state.
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Clothing & textile bills unlikely to advance this session
During the 2025 session, the legislature considered two bills focused on clothing and textiles.
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HB 1107, known as the “Fast Fashion” supply chain transparency bill, aimed to require large apparel and footwear companies to disclose details about their supply chains, including environmental and labor impacts.
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HB 1420 sought to establish an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for textiles, making manufacturers responsible for the collection and recycling of their products.
While neither HB 1107 nor HB 1420 are expected to move forward this session, members of the legislature have indicated a desire to develop HB 1420 into a textile EPR program tailored for Washington.
This means there will be a need for robust stakeholder engagement during the interim. Retailers interested in participating in these discussions and shaping the policy direction should contact WR’s Director of Local & State Government Affairs, Crystal Leatherman, at cleatherman@washingtonretail.org, for more information on how to get involved.
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New battery stewardship rule: Public meeting & comment opportunity
The Washington State Department of Ecology is developing the Battery Stewardship Program Rule (Chapter 173-905 WAC) to implement Chapter 70A.555 RCW, which expands opportunities for recycling unwanted batteries through an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program.
Upcoming Public Meeting
Ecology will hold the next Battery Stewardship Rulemaking Advisory Committee meeting on March 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM (PT) via Zoom. The meeting will revisit key rule concepts and provide updates on the rulemaking process. Public participation is encouraged, and attendees can provide feedback on draft rule language. Register here to receive the meeting link.
Comment Period Open
Ecology is accepting public comments on the draft rule language from February 25, 2025, to March 30, 2025. This is an opportunity for businesses, retailers, and consumers to weigh in on the proposed regulations. Submit your comment here.
For more details, visit Ecology’s Battery Stewardship webpage and subscribe to email updates to stay informed on rulemaking developments.
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Left to right: WR Senior Vice President of Policy & Government Affairs, Mark Johnson, Senator Jamie Pedersen (D-43, Seattle), Senate Majority Leader, and WR Contract Lobbyist Amber Carter | |
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Washington Retail meets with Senate Majority Leader
WR recently met with Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen (D-43, Seattle) and members of his leadership team to discuss key legislative priorities for both the caucus and WR. Topics included the state budget, public safety funding, employment law, unemployment insurance, and paid family and medical leave.
WR values its strong working relationship with Senator Pedersen and his caucus and appreciates the opportunity to collaborate on these important issues.
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Retail roots, community impact: The Panowicz family’s legacy of giving
The Panowicz family is one of three recipients of the Thurston Chamber Foundation’s 2025 Distinguished Leader Award. Anton and Madge Panowicz, founders of Panowicz Jewelers, instilled in their children—Rick, Rob, and Ruthann—a deep commitment to hard work, integrity, and community service. Their dedication has not only built a thriving retail business but has also strengthened the Thurston County community in countless ways.
Ruthann Goularte (Panowicz) has owned and operated Drees, a beloved retail staple in downtown Olympia, for 40 years. As a passionate advocate for Main Street retail, she has also served on the Washington Retail Association’s Board of Directors for the past four years. Throughout her tenure, she has been a steadfast voice for small businesses, ensuring that policymakers understand how state legislation impacts local retailers.
Beyond their business achievements, the Panowicz family has made lasting contributions to local healthcare and education. Their unwavering support for institutions like St. Peter’s Hospital and St. Martin’s University, along with Ruthann’s instrumental role in establishing the Hands-On Museum, reflects their deep-rooted commitment to the community. Their leadership is defined not just by their success in retail but by their dedication to giving back and inspiring others to do the same.
Panowicz Family - 2025 Distinguished Leader Awards Honoree
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Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell addresses past arrest, cites racial profiling
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell recently spoke about a 1996 arrest in Iowa, which he says was the result of racial profiling. At the time, Harrell, then a young attorney, was charged with carrying a concealed weapon, brandishing it, and resisting arrest - charges that were later dismissed.
Harrell explained that as a Black man newly relocated to the Midwest, he carried a gun for protection. He linked the experience to his long-standing advocacy for police accountability. “This is one reason I have been a strong advocate for police accountability,” Harrell stated.
The arrest, which had not been widely known during his political career, came to light through an anonymous tip. Harrell’s spokesperson confirmed that he has shared the incident privately with friends and family over the years.
Harrell, elected mayor in 2021, has prioritized public safety and criminal justice reform, including police body cameras and tenant protection laws. Entering his re-election year, he continues to emphasize transparency and equity in law enforcement.
SeattleTimes.com
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Rep. Mari Leavitt (D-28, Pierce County) testifies on HB 1276 | |
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Washington lawmakers push for tougher penalties on organized retail theft
Washington state is taking a tougher stance against organized retail theft with HB 1276, which seeks to increase prison sentences for those convicted of orchestrated retail crimes. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Mari Leavitt (D-University Place), has bipartisan support and would add one to two years to sentences based on the value of stolen goods.
Washington retailers, including Hashtag Cannabis in Redmond, have been frequent targets of organized theft. Co-owner Logan Bowers, whose store has suffered six break-ins in 18 months, supports the bill, emphasizing the high financial toll of each incident. “Every break-in is $20,000–$30,000, whether or not they get in,” he said.
Mark Johnson of the Washington Retail Association testified in favor of HB1276, highlighting the difference between opportunistic theft and well-coordinated criminal operations. However, concerns remain over enforcement, as King County prosecutors cite staffing and resource shortages.
While legislative efforts progress, businesses continue to seek solutions. “We need a multi-pronged approach,” Bowers noted. “We have to keep putting tools in the toolbox until we get this under control.”
As organized retail crime escalates, HB1276 represents a critical step toward stronger accountability and protection for Washington retailers.
King5.com
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WR Senior Vice President of Policy & Government Affairs, Mark Johnson and Senator Manka Dhingra (D-45, Redmond), Chair of the Law & Justice Committee | |
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Addressing ORC and public safety with Senate Law & Justice Chair
WR’s Senior Vice President of Policy and Government Affairs, Mark Johnson, recently met with Senate Law & Justice Chair Manka Dhingra (D-45, Redmond) and other Senate leaders to discuss public safety, retail theft, and organized retail crime. Johnson emphasized the retail industry’s support for increased funding and resources to hire and retain law enforcement officers, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and specialists in mental health and substance abuse treatment, key components in addressing these growing challenges.
Senator Dhingra is a co-sponsor of SB 5060, alongside prime sponsor Senator Jeff Holy (R-6, Cheney). This bill proposes allocating $100 million through the budget process to hire additional law enforcement officers. Washington State currently ranks last in the nation in law enforcement per capita.
WR appreciates Senator Dhingra and her caucus for prioritizing solutions to combat these critical public safety issues.
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WR diversity statement
WR is committed to the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to create a safe, welcoming environment in which these principles can thrive.
We value all people regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, identity, sexual orientation, nationality, or disability, and that is the foundation of our commitment to those we serve.
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Renée Sunde, President/CEO — 360.200.6450 — Email
Mark Johnson, Sr. VP of Policy & Government Affairs — 360.943.0667 — Email
Crystal Leatherman, Dir of Local & State Government Affairs — 360.200-6453 — Email
Rose Gundersen, VP of Operations & Retail Services — 360.200.6452 — Email
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