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Fair Contracting
Complaint Resolution
We investigate and resolve complaints alleging discrimination in contracting which violates the King County Fair Contracting Ordinance, King County Code, Title 12, Chapter 17.
This ordinance prohibits unfair contracting practices because of a person's protected class:
- race
- color
- religion
- gender
- marital status
- sexual orientation (includes gender identity)
- age
- national origin
- ancestry
- disability
Retaliation is prohibited
It is unlawful for anyone to take negative action against any person because that person has:- Opposed any practice forbidden by this chapter;
- Complied or proposed to comply with this chapter or any order issued under this chapter; or
- Filed a complaint, testified or assisted in any manner in any investigation, proceeding or hearing initiated under this chapter.
This Ordinance covers the following:
- King County government agencies, business enterprises doing business in unincorporated King County or business enterprises required to comply with this chapter by the terms of an agreement with King County may not discriminate against a person with respect to the bid, award or referral of a contract or with respect to the conditions, terms, price, performance standards or other provisions of a contract
- Contracting agencies or trade associations may not discriminate against a person with respect to membership rights and privileges, admission to or participation in a guidance program or other business or occupational training program, or with respect to a referral of a contract opportunity or assignment of a particular contract
- Bonding companies may not discriminate against a person regarding the terms and conditions under which bonding services are offered or performed
- Contractors, business enterprises, contracting agencies or trade associations may not retaliate against a person who has opposed an act of discrimination or who has made a charge, testified or assisted in any manner in an investigation, proceeding or hearing initiated under this chapter.
When can a Fair Contracting complaint be filed?
A fair contracting complaint must be filed within 180 days of the time of the alleged unfair contracting practice (or within 180 days of when you became aware of it).Education and outreach
We can provide information about the Fair Contracting Ordinance. Contact our office for more information.