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One to Keep An Eye On: Initiative 1433 (Washington)


As with many employment and labor law related cases (and bills) being litigated around the country, there are always a few that stand out.  This is one to keep an eye on.


One of the more prevalent employment and labor law developments across the country over the past several months has been the continued fight for higher minimum wage rates.  In fact, there are several minimum wage ballot initiatives pending this November.  In Washington, Initiative 1433 is a minimum wage ballot measure that, if approved, would increase minimum wage rates in the state as follows:  $11/hour in 2017, $11.50/hour in 2018, $12/hour in 2019, and ultimately $13.50/hour by 2020.  After 2020, the wage rate would be annually adjusted for inflation.  (Note, the current minimum wage rate in the state is $9.47/hour...but that will automatically increase to $9.53 next year).

I have seen less polling on this ballot measure than others in the country.  With that being said, Initiative 1433 does not appear to have as much support as other similar minimum wage ballot measures.  I do not think that necessarily means an increased minimum wage rate will not be approved, but I think this vote will likely be much closer.


For additional information:  http://www.king5.com/news/politics/inside-politics/inside-politics-statewide-minimum-wage-initiative/328139708

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