Washington State Labor Laws
Minimum Wage
Washington State's minimum wage is $13.69 per hour as of January 1, 2021. This rate applies to all workers, regardless of age or industry. The state also has a minimum wage for tipped workers, which is currently $13.69 per hour.
Overtime Pay
Employees in Washington State are entitled to overtime pay if they work more than 40 hours in a week. Overtime pay is calculated at 1.5 times the employee's regular hourly rate. Certain types of employees are exempt from overtime pay, such as salaried employees who meet certain criteria.
Breaks
Washington State law requires employers to provide rest breaks and meal periods to their employees. Rest breaks of at least 10 minutes must be provided for every four hours worked, and meal periods of at least 30 minutes must be provided for every five hours worked. Employers are not required to pay employees for these breaks and meal periods.
Discrimination
Washington State has strict laws prohibiting discrimination in the workplace. Employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees or job applicants based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. If an employee believes they have been the victim of discrimination, they can file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission.
Family and Medical Leave
Washington State has a family and medical leave law that allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of leave in a 12-month period for certain family or medical reasons. The law applies to all employers with 50 or more employees, and employees must have worked for their employer for at least 12 months and 1,250 hours to be eligible for leave.
Worker's Compensation
Washington State requires employers to have worker's compensation insurance to provide benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. This insurance covers medical expenses, wage replacement, and other benefits for eligible employees.
Advantages and disadvantages
The strengths of employment laws in Washington State are that they provide strong protections for employees and ensure that they are treated fairly in the workplace. This includes rights such as minimum wages, overtime pay, rest, and protection against discrimination. However, the drawback is that some workers may not be eligible for some of these rights and protections, such as workers who are exempt from overtime pay or workers who are not eligible for family and medical leave.
FAQs
Q: What is the minimum wage in Washington State?
A: The minimum wage in Washington State is $13.69 per hour.
Q: I work more than 40 hours a week, am I entitled to overtime pay?
A: Yes, you are entitled to overtime pay calculated at 1.5 times your regular hourly rate.
Q: Am I entitled to family and medical leave at Washington State?
A: You are entitled to family and medical leave in Washington State if you have worked for your employer for at least 12 months and 1,250 hours in the past 12 months.
Q: What should I do if I experience discrimination at work?
A: If you experience discrimination in the workplace, you can file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission.