Are employers required to provide employee health benefits?

Yes, employers in Washington are required to provide employee health benefits. Businesses must offer some type of health insurance to employees if they have more than 50 full-time equivalent employees in the state. The insurance must include services such as hospitalization, outpatient care, mental health and substance abuse benefits, prescription drug coverage, and preventive care. Employers must also offer medical leave benefits to employees who have been employed for at least 12 months and worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12-month period. This leave can be used for the employee’s own medical care or to care for a family member. Employees may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave and are entitled to reinstatement with the same terms and conditions of employment that existed prior to the leave. Additionally, Washington law requires employers to provide employees with workplace safety and health protection. Employers must provide employees with a safe and healthful workplace, free from recognized hazards. Employers must also report any serious workplace injuries or illnesses that occur in their workplace. By following these laws, employers in Washington can ensure that their employees are provided with adequate health benefits and a safe and healthy working environment.

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Are employers required to provide employee health benefits?

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