Last mentioned: Mar 25, 2026
Notice Deadline
Final date for employers to notify workers in writing that their noncompetes are void.
Notification Deadline
Final date for employers to provide written notice of non-enforceability to workers.
Notification Deadline
Final date for employers to notify staff in writing that noncompetes are void.
Notification Deadline
Final date for employers to notify staff that noncompetes are no longer enforceable.
Effective Date
All noncompetition covenants become void and unenforceable across the state.
Effective Date
The law takes effect and all existing noncompete covenants become void.
Effective Date
All noncompetition covenants become void and unenforceable statewide.
Effective Date
All noncompetition covenants become void and unenforceable in Washington.
Bill Signed
Governor Bob Ferguson signs SHB 1155 into law.
Gubernatorial Signing
Governor Bob Ferguson signs SHB 1155 into law.
SHB 1155 Signed
Governor Bob Ferguson signs the near-total ban on noncompete agreements.
SHB 1155 Signed
Governor Bob Ferguson signs the near-total ban into law.
Legislative Passage
The Washington State Legislature passes SHB 1155.
Previous Reform
Washington restricted noncompetes to high-earning employees and contractors.
Initial Restrictions
Washington limits noncompetes to high-earning employees and contractors.
Previous Restrictions
Washington limits noncompetes to high-earning employees and contractors.
Previous Restrictions
Washington limits noncompetes to high-earning employees and contractors.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has signed SHB 1155 into law, effectively voiding nearly all noncompete agreements for employees and independent contractors starting June 30, 2027. The legislation marks a significant shift for the state's massive tech sector, applying retroactively and requiring employers to notify staff of the change by October 2027.
Governor Bob Ferguson has signed SHB 1155, effectively banning nearly all noncompete agreements for employees and independent contractors in Washington starting June 2027. This retroactive legislation marks a significant pivot for the Pacific Northwest’s tech ecosystem, prioritizing labor mobility over traditional corporate restrictive covenants.
Governor Bob Ferguson has signed SHB 1155 into law, effectively voiding nearly all noncompete agreements for employees and independent contractors in Washington. The law, which takes effect June 30, 2027, includes retroactive provisions and mandates that employers provide written notice of non-enforceability to their workforce.
Governor Bob Ferguson has signed SHB 1155 into law, effectively voiding nearly all noncompete agreements for employees and independent contractors in Washington starting June 30, 2027. The legislation includes retroactive provisions and mandates that employers provide written notice to affected individuals by October 2027.