EVERETT — Washington’s minimum wage is jumping to $14.49 per hour, according to a Thursday announcement from the Department of Labor & Industries.
The change takes effect Jan. 1 and marks a 5.83% increase from the state’s current minimum wage, $13.69.
L&I calculates the state’s minimum wage annually using information from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. Cities can set higher minimum wages within their own boundaries.
Most jobs qualify for the minimum wage, including ones in agriculture. Starting in 2022, agricultural workers are also eligible for overtime pay after working more than 55 hours per week.
Employers are allowed to pay workers ages 14-15 only 85% of the minimum wage under state law. The new minimum wage for the 14- and 15-year-old workers is $12.32 per hour starting in 2022.
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