Wage

Washington State Ushers in 2025 with Key Legislation: Highlights from Minimum Wage Hikes to Enhanced Road Safety Measures

by

Washington State greeted the new year with a series of legislative changes that took effect on January 1, impacting wages, education, workplace policies, and road safety laws among others. One of the most noteworthy adjustments is the increase in the statewide minimum wage to $16.66 per hour, making it the highest baseline state wage in the nation. This new rate represents a 2.35% rise from the previous year, positioning Washington ahead of California where the minimum wage is $16.50 for most workers and $18 for those in the healthcare sector. Comparatively, Idaho maintains a minimum … Read more

Illinois Set to Boost Minimum Wage to $15 in 2025, Completing Scheduled Increases Aimed at Enhancing Worker Support

by

Springfield, IL — Illinois is setting a new standard for minimum wage as it rises to $15 per hour starting January 1, 2025, marking a significant shift in the state’s approach to economic equity. This final step in a series of increases reflects a broader movement toward supporting the state’s workforce, as initiated by legislation signed in 2019 by Governor JB Pritzker. The adjustment not only elevates the standard wage from $14 to $15 but also modifies wages for other groups. Tipped employees will now earn $9 per hour, an upgrade intended to better align … Read more

New Year, New Rules: Virginia to Introduce Fresh Laws in 2025 Boosting Minimum Wage, Adjusting Jury Duty Age, and More

by

Richmond, VA – A series of significant legislative changes will take effect in Virginia starting January 1, 2025, impacting various aspects of life from wages to education and healthcare. These new laws are set to bring about considerable transformations across the Commonwealth, reflecting ongoing efforts to adapt to economic conditions and public health needs. One of the key changes concerns the state’s minimum wage, which will see an adjustment to reflect inflationary pressures. The current minimum wage of $12.00 per hour will be increased to $12.41. This adjustment is part of a broader strategy to … Read more

Court Upholds $22 Million Verdict Against Battery Maker for Wage Violations, Sets Precedent on Worker Pay for Prep Time

by

Philadelphia, PA – In a significant ruling, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit upheld a $22 million verdict against East Penn Manufacturing Co., affirming the lower court’s decision that the company failed to adequately compensate its hourly workers for all work-related activities, including time spent changing and showering. The federal appeals court, however, denied the U.S. Labor Department’s request for liquidated damages in the case. The trial exposed the company’s attempts to circumvent the fundamental principle that hourly employees should be paid for each hour worked. This ruling reinforces the precedent that … Read more