Washington § 43.43.834 - Background checks by business, organization, or insurance company — Limitations — Civil liability.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 43.43.834 — Background checks by business, organization, or insurance company — Limitations — Civil liability., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 43.43.834. Background checks by business, organization, or insurance company — Limitations — Civil liability.

(1) A business or organization shall not make an inquiry to the Washington state patrol under RCW 43.43.832 or an equivalent inquiry to a federal law enforcement agency unless the business or organization has notified the applicant who may be offered a position as an employee or volunteer, that an inquiry may be made.
(2) A business or organization shall require each applicant to disclose to the business or organization whether the applicant:
(a) Has been convicted of a crime;
(b) Has had findings made against him or her in any civil adjudicative proceeding as defined in RCW 43.43.830; or
(c) Has both a conviction under (a) of this subsection and findings made against him or her under (b) of this subsection.
(3) The business or organization shall pay such reasonable fee for the records check as the state patrol may require under RCW 43.43.838.
(4) The business or organization shall notify the applicant of the state patrol's response within ten days after receipt by the business or organization. The employer shall provide a copy of the response to the applicant and shall notify the applicant of such availability.
(5) The business or organization shall use this record only in making the initial employment or engagement decision. Further dissemination or use of the record is prohibited, except as provided in RCW 28A.320.155. A business or organization violating this subsection is subject to a civil action for damages.
(6) An insurance company shall not require a business or organization to request background information on any employee before issuing a policy of insurance.
(7) The business and organization shall be immune from civil liability for failure to request background information on an applicant unless the failure to do so constitutes gross negligence.
[ 2005 c 421 s 3; 1999 c 21 s 2; 1998 c 10 s 3; 1990 c 3 s 1103. Prior: 1989 c 334 s 3; 1989 c 90 s 3; 1987 c 486 s 3.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 43.43.834

What does Revised Code of Washington § 43.43.834 cover?

Section 43.43.834 ("Background checks by business, organization, or insurance company — Limitations — Civil liability.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 43.43.834?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 43.43.834" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 43.43.834 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

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