Harassment: Washington

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Author: Valarie S. Zeeck, Gordon Thomas Honeywell LLP

Summary

• The Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) prohibits harassment on the basis of a number of protected categories. See Harassment Under the Washington Law Against Discrimination.
• Washington Courts generally use the McDonnell-Douglas burden shifting analysis to consider claims of harassment. See Litigating Claims of Harassment.
• Sexual harassment claims may be based on either a quid pro quo theory or a hostile work environment theory. See Litigating Claims of Harassment.
• An employee working for a private employer may, but is not required to, file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission. See Administrative Process and Remedies for Harassment.
• Public employees may have additional administrative remedies that should be considered based on merit system rules unique to the jurisdiction in which they work. See Administrative Process and Remedies for Harassment.
• Seattle has requirements pertaining to harassment. See Local Requirements.