OLYMPIA, WA – Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has announced the launch of a new Worker Rights Unit aimed at enforcing the state’s labor laws, addressing wage theft, and supporting workers who may be hesitant to report violations.

According to the announcement, the unit will focus on upholding Washington’s existing worker protections, which include one of the highest minimum wages in the nation, overtime requirements for all workers—including those in agriculture—and safeguards against discrimination and retaliation. The Attorney General’s Office stated that national studies estimate wage theft costs workers billions annually and said the new unit is intended to strengthen efforts to address those losses.

Brown noted that federal labor enforcement has weakened in recent years and said the state intends to fill that gap. The unit will work closely with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and the Seattle Office of Labor Standards, with particular emphasis on cases involving low- and moderate-income workers who may fear retaliation if they file complaints.

Labor leaders quoted in the release expressed support for the initiative, describing wage theft as a widespread concern affecting multiple industries, including construction. The Attorney General’s Office also said it will collaborate with lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session on proposals to improve investigative tools and enhance protections for immigrant workers.

More than a dozen other state attorneys general operate similar units focused on worker rights enforcement. Washington’s new unit is currently seeking applicants for its Unit Chief position, with applications open through Nov. 30.