What are the specific rights or protections that small business owners have when selected for an audit, inspection, or other government agency enforcement action? A bill sponsored by Rep. Andrew Barkis, in partnership with the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), will help define these rights.
Gov. Jay Inslee signed House Bill 1352 into law Monday. This bill sets up a process for the state to inform small business owners of their rights and protections when selected for an audit or inspection, as well as identifies what rules the government must follow.
“It’s tough out there to be a small business, especially when an unexpected audit or inspection happens,” said Barkis, R-Olympia. “Many small businesses don’t know what to do when a government agency comes knocking on their door. They often don’t understand what their rights are surrounding these types of actions.”
Under Barkis‘ bill, the Attorney General will recommend changes to identify, clarify, and harmonize rights and protections afforded to small business owners selected for agency enforcement action.
“Today is a great day for small businesses around the state of Washington! As a small business owner, I personally understand how important this is,” continued Barkis. “The bipartisan work put into this bill is proof that when we work together, great things are accomplished. I want to thank Sen. Lynda Wilson, of Vancouver, for her hard work on the companion bill, and for helping to champion this bill through the Senate. I’m proud our work shows small businesses their rights and protections matter.”
The law will go into effect on July 23, 2017.
