re: Sea-Tac workers not happy with $15/hr minimum wage

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Washington's minimum wage applies to workers in both agriculture and non-agricultural jobs, although 14- and 15-year-olds may be paid 85% of the minimum wage ($7.92).

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The wage applies to workers in both agricultural and non-agricultural jobs. Although there are some exemptions, most workers must be paid the minimum wage for all "hours worked" as required by state law. "Hours worked" includes opening and closing the business, and required meetings and training. Any time spent by an employee in the performance of these duties must be recorded and paid.

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Businesses may not use tips as credit toward minimum wages owed to a worker.

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The federal Department of Labor minimum wage is $7.25 an hour. In states that set rates that differ from federal law, the higher rate applies.
Most Washington employers are subject to both federal and state minimum wage and overtime laws. The effect of this dual coverage is that the employer must follow the higher standard, meaning the one most beneficial to the employee, when there are differing requirements in the laws.

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