On October 4, the Seattle Office of Labor Standards (OLS) announced that the minimum wage will rise to $20.76 per hour on January 1, up from $19.97.
For employers with fewer than 500 employees, the increase could be even more impactful. Prior to 2025, those employers could get a credit of up to $2.72 per hour for medical benefits provided to employees, effectively lowering their minimum wage to $17.25. However, that total compensation credit, which also includes credit for tips, will expire on December 31, 2024, unless the City Council takes action to extend it.
This $3.51 hourly increase poses a challenge for many smaller retailers. In response, WR is collaborating with the Washington Hospitality Association and other organizations to urge the Council to extend the total compensation credit.
WR wants to hear from Seattle retailers about how this minimum wage increase will affect your business and employees. Your feedback will help strengthen our case for extending the total compensation credit. Please share your thoughts and concerns with John Engber, Director of the Retail Industry Coalition of Seattle, at [email protected].
