State Laws
Whether you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or straight-supportive, your state’s laws probably have a major impact on your life. State laws govern everything from the legal status of relationships between same-sex partners to the ability of transgender people to list their correct gender identity on their birth certificates. The Human Rights Campaign works with state leaders to advance the rights of LGBT people across the nation, from Alabama to Wyoming.
Here you can learn about the current laws affecting LGBT issues in your state, as well as state legislation — upcoming bills that could change the way you live. You can also learn more about what’s going on in your state and find out about local news, elections and volunteer opportunities.
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State Laws can be filtered by state or you can view the full list of Laws by selecting "All State Laws."
Washington Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for a determination of co-parentage.
Washington Donor Insemination Law
Washington has no explicit law regarding donor insemination.
Washington Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression.
Washington Healthcare Laws
State healthcare laws relating to the LGBT community in the areas of medical decision making and hospital visitation.
Washington Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Washington law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. The Washington domestic partnership registration allows same-sex couples the opportunity to formalize relationships.
Washington Non-Discrimination Law
Washington law prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Washington School Laws
Washington law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Washington Sodomy Law
The Washington sodomy law was repealed in 1976.
Washington Surrogacy Law
Washington allows uncompensated surrogacy arrangements but deems illegal and unenforceable any agreement involving any payment to the surrogate mother other than medical and legal expenses. The issue of surrogacy agreements involving lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) individuals has not yet been considered by the courts.
