Seattle Minimum Wage Increase Pending

In May 2014, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray announced that he had reached an agreement with businesses, labor and non-profit organizations to increase the minimum wage in Seattle from its current rate of $9.32 to $15.00 per hour.

The agreement will allow small businesses (with fewer than 500 employees) to reach the $15.00 per hour minimum wage in seven years.  However, small businesses can combine employer-paid health care contributions, tips and wages to ensure that the $15.00 minimum rate is met in five years.

Large businesses (with 500 or more employees) must reach the $15.00 per hour in three years.  However, the wages of employees who receive health care benefits must reach the $15.00 per hour rate in four years.

After the $15.00 per horu rate is reached, future increases will be tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

The Seattle City Council is now considering the Mayor’s proposed $15 per hour increase.  The measure will be consider and brought to a final vote in June 2014.

See other states minimum wage rates.

Sources:
Seattle City Council
Seattle Mayor’s Office

By Jack Rivers