New labor laws kick in this month

Various labor-related laws have taken effect this year, starting January 1, affecting various workers, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) announced in a press release.

Minimum wage hike

In a statement dated December 27, L&I said that the state’s minimum wage is now $15.74 per hour, hiking from last year’s $14.49, for workers aged 16 and higher, while employees 14 to 15 years old will receive 85%, which is $13.38.

Overtime

Employers with 50 or fewer employees must now pay executives, administrative workers, professional or computer professionals, and outside salespeople the minimum salary and 1.75 times their basic hourly wages for overtime.

“For employers with 51 or more employees, the threshold is double the minimum wage, $1,259.20/week ($65,478.40/year),” L&I said.

Agricultural workers’ overtime rates

L&I added that agricultural workers would work fewer hours in 2023 to be eligible for overtime pay, working at least 48 hours in a workweek before earning overtime.

“Beginning Jan. 1, 2024,” L&I announced, “overtime eligibility will start after 40 hours in a workweek.”

Rideshare drivers

Legislation passed last year now provides rideshare drivers with new rights and protections, added L&I, who now have the right to minimum trip pay, paid sick time, workers’ compensation coverage, and protection from retaliation for exercising these rights.

“The legislation also created a Driver Resource Center, which will assist if drivers appeal being removed from a company’s app,” said L&I.

New hiring rules

L&I also has new hiring rules for businesses with a minimum of 15 employees where they are required to provide the following information when putting out notices for hiring:

• Salary range or pay scale
• General description of all benefits offered
• Identify any other compensation

Employers will also be required upon request information if an employee is promoted or transferred to a new position, with the pay scale for the new position.

More information is available on L&I's website about minimum wage, overtime, rest breaks, meal periods, and how to file a wage complaint. Employers and workers may also call 360-902-5316 or 1-866-219-7321.