Gov. Jay Inslee issued a statement today following the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) release of a proposed rule that would restore overtime protections for thousands of Washington workers. The proposed changes will significantly increase the number of employees who receive overtime pay in Washington, by raising the salary threshold for exempt workers and updating the test used to determine who qualifies for the exemption.
Late last year, Inslee directed L&I to update the state’s overtime rules.
“This is a long overdue update that will help tens of thousands of Washingtonian workers. Overtime protections ensure workers are fairly compensated when they work more than 40 hours in a given week — time that would otherwise be spent with their families and in their communities. The erosion of this threshold over time has left too many workers behind.
“Washington has consistently ranked as one of the top economies in the country while also being ranked as the best state for workers. We know a strong economy goes hand-in-hand with a strong and well-supported workforce.
“I thank L&I for their work to update the system that will benefit hard-working Washingtonians and their families. I encourage people to participate in the process and share their stories and comments.”
For more information, visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.
Additional information
May 2019: Inslee letter to Trump Administration on proposed overtime rules
Nov. 2018: Inslee op-ed: Fair overtime pay is needed in Washington