Washington § 49.44.120 - Requiring lie detector tests — Penalty.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 49.44.120 — Requiring lie detector tests — Penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 49.44.120. Requiring lie detector tests — Penalty.

(1) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or the state of Washington, its political subdivisions or municipal corporations to require, directly or indirectly, that any employee or prospective employee take or be subjected to any lie detector or similar tests as a condition of employment or continued employment: PROVIDED, That this section shall not apply to persons making application for employment with any law enforcement agency or with the juvenile court services agency of any county, or to persons returning after a break of more than twenty-four consecutive months in service as a fully commissioned law enforcement officer: PROVIDED FURTHER, That this section shall not apply to either the initial application for employment or continued employment of persons who manufacture, distribute, or dispense controlled substances as defined in chapter 69.50 RCW, or to persons in sensitive positions directly involving national security.
(2) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the use of psychological tests as defined in RCW 18.83.010.
(3) Any person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(4) As used in this section, "person" includes any individual, firm, corporation, or agency or political subdivision of the state.
(5) Nothing in this section may be construed as limiting any statutory or common law rights of any person illegally denied employment or continued employment under this section for purposes of any civil action or injunctive relief.
[ 2007 c 14 s 1; 2005 c 265 s 1; 2003 c 53 s 278; 1985 c 426 s 1; 1973 c 145 s 1; 1965 c 152 s 1.]

Notes

Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 49.44.120

What does Revised Code of Washington § 49.44.120 cover?

Section 49.44.120 ("Requiring lie detector tests — Penalty.") 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 § 49.44.120?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 49.44.120" (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 § 49.44.120 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.

Sources & Verification

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