Time Spent Receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine Counts as Hours Worked in Washington

Washington has passed a new rule stating that if an employer requires employees to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, the time associated with receiving the vaccine must be considered hours worked and overtime must be paid under the Washington State Minimum Wage Act. Generally speaking, leave with pay during the employee’s regular work schedule is not considered time worked under Washington law. The rule is effective January 1, 2024.