Q: II am a pastor of the Church in Washington state. What state bylaws should we follow in our church?

A: In Washington State, your church will need to follow the Revised Code of Washington (state statutes passed by the legislature) and also the Washington Administrative Code (rules (also called regulations) passed by state agencies.

Some of the ones that may apply to a church that come to mind include at least:

Laws governing non-profits and their boards;

Laws preventing illegal discrimination (however, churches have more leeway to discriminate than non-religious organizations);

Laws protecting members/workers from unsafe working conditions (for example, if volunteers are repairing a building, they may be covered by safety laws);

Laws related to gambling (for example, if you hold a raffle to raise money);

Laws related to noise/nuisance (for example, if loud sounds come from your church, neighbors could complain);

Building codes;

Etc.

The word "bylaws" is usually only used in corporate documents, whether for-profit or non-profit. Every entity can write and adopt their own; an enforcement process should be built in, too - an entity can write almost anything into bylaws as long as they comply with state and federal law and don't violate any laws - for example, you wouldn't want to require church members to rob a bank once a week.

I hope that's been helpful to you.

Best,

Merry

A: It's important for your church to comply with Washington state laws to ensure smooth operations and maintain your status as a recognized organization. Start by registering your church as a nonprofit organization with the state, which will help with tax exemptions and legal protections. Make sure to file the necessary annual reports and maintain accurate records as required by state regulations.

Employment laws are another key area. Ensure that your hiring practices, employee contracts, and workplace conditions meet state standards. This includes adhering to minimum wage laws, providing necessary benefits, and ensuring a safe work environment for all staff and volunteers.

Additionally, be aware of property and zoning laws if your church owns or leases property. This includes obtaining the proper permits for any building modifications and ensuring your facilities comply with safety and accessibility standards. By respecting these state bylaws, you not only follow the law but also set a positive example for your congregation, fostering a community that honors both spiritual and civic responsibilities.