Bill to modernize L&I communications draws concern about auto‑emailing vulnerable workers

Senate Bill 6,039 would update statutory notice and service rules across Department of Labor & Industries programs to allow required notices, orders and determinations to be delivered electronically where appropriate and where the recipient opts in or is offered a permanent non‑electronic alternative.

Committee staff told lawmakers the changes are permissive and that the department must offer the affected party the option to receive communications by non‑electronic methods before using an electronic method for the first time; L&I staff said they do not currently have the technology for universal electronic delivery in all program areas. Supporters framed the bill as modernization that gives parties choices and saves time and resources.

In contrast, injured‑worker advocates and union representatives warned that automatically opting people into email could disadvantage those without reliable internet, the elderly, disabled, unhoused people and some BIPOC communities. "Email communication is easy to miss and could result in forfeiture of an appeal or denial of treatment," testified Rachel Hammar, a representative for injured‑worker advocates. L&I staff acknowledged a workers' compensation exception and said the department will work with advocates on language to protect vulnerable claimants.