Washington
Washington state laws, regulations, court decisions, and active legislation
Overview
Washington's legal system is one of the most progressive in the nation, with comprehensive reforms in criminal justice, environmental regulation, worker protections, and civil rights. The state was one of the first two to legalize recreational marijuana (2012), has the highest state minimum wage ($16.28/hr), enacted an assault weapons ban, and has a cap-and-invest climate program.
Washington's legal framework includes strong tenant protections with just cause eviction, all-mail voting since 2011, comprehensive paid family and medical leave, and the nation's first long-term care insurance program. The state's tech industry (Amazon, Microsoft) creates significant legal activity in privacy, employment, and antitrust law.
Court Structure
Washington's court system includes municipal courts, district courts, superior courts (general jurisdiction trial courts in 39 counties), the Court of Appeals (three divisions), and the Washington Supreme Court. Superior court judges are elected in nonpartisan elections. Supreme Court justices are elected statewide for six-year terms.
Unique Laws & Facts
- •Washington was one of the first two states to legalize recreational marijuana (2012)
- •The state has the highest state minimum wage at $16.28/hr with no tip credit
- •Washington conducts all elections by mail since 2011
- •The state enacted the nation's first long-term care insurance program
- •Washington's cap-and-invest climate program is one of the most comprehensive
Legal Landscape
Washington's legal landscape is defined by progressive innovation across nearly every legal domain: environmental regulation, worker protections, voting access, gun control, tenant rights, and drug policy. The state's tech industry creates emerging legal challenges in privacy, employment classification, and market competition.
Key Washington Laws (4)
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Washington's DUI applies at 0.08% BAC or 5 ng/mL THC. First offense carries a mandatory 24 hours in jail, nearly $1,000 minimum fine, 90-day license suspension, and ignition interlock. A 7-year lookback applies for prior convictions. Fourth offense within 10 years is a felony.
Initiative 502 – Recreational Marijuana Regulations
Washington allows adults 21+ to possess 1 ounce of marijuana but prohibits home cultivation for recreational users. A 37% excise tax (one of the highest in the nation) funds healthcare, education, and substance abuse prevention. Washington was a pioneer legalizer in 2012.
Residential Landlord-Tenant Act – Security Deposits and Just Cause
Washington does not cap security deposits but requires return within 21 days with itemized deductions. Just cause eviction applies after one year. 60 days' notice is required for rent increases. Source of income discrimination is banned. Strong anti-retaliation protections apply.
Concealed Pistol License and Assault Weapons Ban
Washington requires concealed carry permits (shall-issue). An assault weapons ban (2023) prohibits new sales. Magazines over 10 rounds are banned. Universal background checks and a 10-day waiting period apply. A red flag law exists. Open carry remains legal without a permit.
Pending Legislation (1)
Washington Privacy Act
Comprehensive data privacy law giving consumers rights to access, delete, and opt out of personal data collection and sale.