As a reminder to Burien employers in Washington, the City of Burien filed a complaint on February 25, 2025, in King County Superior Court seeking a declaratory judgment on Initiative 24-001 (“Initiative 1”), which was approved by voters in the February 2025 special election: the City is requesting judicial guidance to ensure clarity for residents, employees, and employers regarding the local minimum wage law.

Separately, under Ordinance No. 855, Burien established a citywide minimum wage effective January 1, 2025, with rates exceeding the state minimum wage and varying by employer size.

• Employers with 20 or fewer full-time equivalents (FTEs) are exempt.

• Larger employers must comply with wage increases ranging from $3.50 to $4.50 above the state minimum wage.

• Employers should also note that, effective March 13, 2025, Initiative 1 sets minimum wage rates aligned with Tukwila’s, and beginning August 10, 2025, requires offering additional hours to existing employees before hiring new staff.

For additional information:

• WA Buren – Minimum Wage
• WA Burien – Seeks Clarification of Conflicting Laws
• WA Buren – Establishing a Local Minimum Wage
• WA Buren – Resolution 515
• Washington State hourly minimum wage
• City of Burien Complaint to King County Superior Court

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