Bill > SB5339

This bill seeks to stabilize minimum wage increases by linking future state minimum wage adjustments directly to changes in the federal minimum wage. Specifically, the bill sets the state minimum wage at $16.66 per hour and establishes that any future increases will only occur if the federal minimum wage is raised, matching the percentage increase. The legislation aims to address what legislators view as potentially harmful economic consequences of rapid minimum wage hikes, including potential job losses, reduced work hours, and negative impacts on small businesses. The bill recognizes that Washington currently has the highest state-mandated minimum wage in the country and seeks to pause further unilateral increases. Local jurisdictions with existing minimum wage rates above $16.66 will be prevented from further increases, and if the state minimum wage eventually exceeds a local rate, the state rate will apply. The legislature's findings, included in the bill, suggest that previous aggressive minimum wage increases may have unintentionally harmed workers by reducing available hours and potentially shutting young workers out of entry-level employment opportunities. By tying future increases to federal action, the bill aims to create more predictable and balanced wage policy.

Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5339&Year=2025&Initiative=false