Amazing and Insane New Laws Coming to Washington State in 2023

With 2022 coming to a close we're about to see some new laws going into action at the first of 2023. Many may not even pertain to you, but they may to someone you know. Or some laws will directly affect you but you didn't know it or may not know about it until it's too late. Here's a list of new laws to consider in 2023.

A boost in minimum wage

Washington State's minimum wage will be $15.74. That's the bare-bones minimum. The 'well, I guess I'm forced to pay you for your work so I won't get in trouble so I'll pay you the smallest amount I'm legally obligated to pay for you' wage. Minimum wage will also be worth fighting for and at over $15 an hour, it's sure a lot more than I was getting paid when my minimum wage was $4 an hour, but that was also several years ago. So many places, including Yakima, offer more than that but at least you know you'll be getting at least that.

If you're in Seattle, thanks to the higher cost of living, you're looking at a minimum between $16 and $18 on the low end.

If you're in Tukwila, starting July 1, you need to make at least what the employees of SeaTac is making so that's a good basis to go off of. It gets a little confusing from there but you can read more if interested.

How much for the job?

Something that should be common sense but now making it official. Jobs with 15 or more employees will have to list salary and benefits in job postings. I love this. How many times have you gone through the entire interview process only to find out the job isn't worth your time? This way, it'll eliminate that, and won't get those awkward conversations later about what your job does or doesn't include.

Workers Comp

Workers comp benefits gets a slight increase in 2023 by an average of 4.8%. Not bad.

Family / Medical Leave Act Increase

The paid family and medical leave act gets a slight increase in premiums only by .8%, but it's better than nothing.

You can see more specific jobs on the wahospitality website.