The bill amends RCW 49.46.020 to establish a series of incremental increases to the minimum wage for employees aged 18 and older, starting from $11 per hour in 2017 and reaching $13.50 per hour by 2021. Following this, the minimum wage will be adjusted annually based on inflation, calculated using the consumer price index for urban wage earners and clerical workers. Additionally, the bill mandates that employers must pay employees all tips and gratuities in full, without deductions for credit card processing fees, ensuring that employees receive the total amount indicated by customers on credit card slips.

Key insertions in the bill include the specification of minimum wage amounts and the requirement that employers who allow credit card tips must cover any associated processing fees, thereby protecting employee earnings. The bill also clarifies that tips and service charges are in addition to the minimum wage and cannot be counted towards it. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance wage protections for employees and ensure they receive the full benefit of customer gratuities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.46.020