Story perspectives

Washington to Raise Minimum Wage and Modernize Laws in 2026

12/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

Starting January 1, 2026, Washington will raise the minimum wage to $17.13 per hour.
The Paid Family & Medical Leave program expands job protections for employers with 25 or more employees.
Washington's child support laws will be modernized to update calculations and raise the self-support reserve.
The changes come from legislation by the Washington State Legislature.
New provisions strengthen victims' rights in legal proceedings by ensuring information and support.

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Story summary

Starting January 1, 2026, Washington will raise the minimum wage to $17.13 per hour.
The Paid Family & Medical Leave program expands job protections for employers with 25 or more employees.
Washington's child support laws will be modernized to update calculations and raise the self-support reserve.
The changes come from legislation by the Washington State Legislature.
New provisions strengthen victims' rights in legal proceedings by ensuring information and support.