OLYMPIA, Wash. — As the new year approaches, a range of Washington state laws will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, bringing changes to workers, employers, families, and consumers across the state.
These changes stem from legislation passed by the Washington State Legislature earlier this year. Here's a look at some of the big ones.
Washington’s state minimum wage will rise to $17.13 per hour on Jan. 1, 2026, according to the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. This increase reflects the annual adjustment tied to inflation and state law requirements.
The change also affects the salary thresholds used to determine exemptions from overtime pay, with new minimums set based on the updated wage rate.
Starting Jan. 1, 2026, Washington’s Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) program will adjust its job protection requirements. Under the updated rules published by the Employment Security Department:
Additionally, the PFML premium rate will increase to 1.13% in 2026, as announced by the Employment Security Department, funding the expanded benefits.
Washington’s family law code (RCW 26.19) is being significantly updated for Jan. 1, 2026,...
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