BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – An expanded rule that took effect this month ensures equal pay and other protections in Washington.

Labor and Industries, Washington State (L&I) made the announcement as the rule took effect July 1. According to the department, it ensures equal pay for everyone under state law.

That expands the previous rule from just gender discrimination to a variety of workers in the state.

The Equal Pay and Opportunities Act now covers workers in the full range of sexual orientation, race, immigration status and physical ability.

L&I says that now, determining if employees have similar jobs is based on skill, effort and responsibility.

The department adds that Washington has the sixth widest pay gap between genders in the U.S. in 2023.

More changes taking effect on July 27 prohibit the requirement of a driver’s license at the time of employment unless driving is required and requires jobs listings state wage information and other benefits. The job listings rule change only applies to businesses that employ 15 or more employees.