Human Rights Commission

The Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) is charged with administering and enforcing the Washington Law Against Discrimination. 

RCW 49.60 prohibits discrimination in employment, public accommodation, real estate transactions, and other activities. The state rules governing the WSHRC can be found in WAC Chapter 162.

Employees who work for employers that have at least eight employees and who believe they have been victims of discrimination may file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission within six months of the alleged violation. The commission investigates the claim. If the WSHRC finds that illegal discrimination has occurred, the commission first attempts to bring about a voluntary agreement with the parties to resolve the issues. If these efforts fail, the WSHRC may take the complaint to a formal hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, who can impose penalties.