Dermond v. Employment Security Department

In recent decisions we have interpreted the legislative definition of “misconduct” for which a terminated employee will be denied unemployment benefits. This case involves yet another aspect of the definition. Disqualifying misconduct occurs “where the effect of the employee’s act or failure to act is to harm the employer’s business.” RCW 50.04.293 (emphasis added). We hold that proof of tangible economic harm is not a prerequisite to denial of benefits, but actual detriment to the employer’s operations must be demonstrated.

Facts

Kathleen Dermond worked as a telecommunications analyst at…