Minimum wage increase began Jan. 1

OLYMPIA — As of Jan. 1, low-wage earners and some salaried employees are being paid more for their efforts on the job.

Across Eastern Washington and some areas west of the Cascades, the minimum wage increased 19 cents per hour, from $13.50 to $13,69, according to the state Department of Labor and Industries.

The minimum wage in the cities of Seattle and SeaTac increased to $16.69 per hour and $16.57, respectively, the agency said, noting those minimum wages are set by city ordinances.

Elsewhere in the state, the minimum wage is established under Revised Code of Washington 49.46.020(3).

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