Councilmember Hollingsworth Halts Minimum Wage Legislation to
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Seattle City Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth, representing District 3, announced on August 2, 2024, that she will not proceed with her current legislation concerning the minimum wage tip credit, which is set to expire at the end of the year. Her decision reflects a desire to facilitate collaborative discussions among key stakeholders, including small business owners and labor unions, to reach a balanced solution that benefits both workers and local restaurants. In her statement, Hollingsworth highlighted the critical role that small, neighborhood restaurants play in defining Seattle's diverse communities and providing job opportunities. She reiterated her commitment to advancing wages and workers' rights while also ensuring these businesses can survive ongoing economic challenges stemming from the pandemic. Hollingsworth characterized her initial proposal as a starting point rather than an endpoint in the legislative process.
The current minimum wage in Seattle stands at $19. 97, but businesses with fewer than 500 employees can pay a reduced rate of $17. 25 if they meet specific conditions related to medical benefits and tips. The expiration of the tip credit in 2025, if not addressed, could significantly impact these businesses. Hollingsworth looks forward to the collaborative work ahead in the coming weeks.