HB 1155 would render noncompete agreements void and unenforceable statewide; supporters say it increases worker mobility and protects patients, while business groups urge narrow exemptions for senior executives and financial institutions. Committee heard many personal accounts and mixed testimony before advancing other business to executive action.

The Washington State House passed engrossed substitute House Bill 11 55, a measure to ban most noncompete agreements. Lawmakers adopted several clarifying amendments but rejected a proposal to exempt high‑paid senior executives; final House vote was 65‑29 with 4 excused.

The Senate passed Substitute 1 for SB67 to make background checks obtained through the Background Check Center valid for one year and require RapBack notifications to alert employers of subsequent qualifying criminal history, a change sponsors said reduces duplication and protects vulnerable clients.

Members discussed new language that would bar noncompete agreements for nonexempt (hourly) employees and health-care providers, streamline earlier provisions, and move the changes into a labor/housing vehicle with a planned vote later in the week.

A Bakers Association-led working group told the House Commerce & Economic Development Committee it could support statutory guardrails on noncompete agreements but flagged major open questions — wage thresholds, trade-secret scope, health-care impacts and a recommendation against retroactive changes.