What are the State labor laws?

In Washington, labor law covers the rights of both employees and employers. It dictates how businesses must operate and the responsibilities of employers to their employees. State labor laws include minimum wage, workplace safety, unemployment insurance, payment of wages, the right to participate in collective bargaining, and the right to unionize. Minimum wage in Washington is currently set at $13.69 per hour for all employees, with the exception of employees under 16, who are paid $12.59 per hour. Minimum wage in Washington must be at least 50 cents higher than the Federal minimum wage. Washington also requires employers to provide paid sick leave, which allows a worker to take up to 3 days of paid leave if they are sick or have a family health emergency. Workplace safety is taken extremely seriously in Washington, and employers are required to provide a safe working environment for their employees. This includes regular safety inspections of the premises and equipment, appropriate training for employees, and emergency safety plans in the event of a workplace accident or injury. Unemployment benefits are another important aspect of Washington labor law. Employees who have been laid off or through no fault of their own become unemployed are eligible for financial assistance from the state until they are able to find new employment. Employees in Washington also have the right to unionize and collectively bargain with their employers. This means employees can form unions and negotiate for improved wages, better working conditions, and other benefits. In addition, Washington law protects the right of employees to engage in strikes and other forms of protest.

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