The city of Burien on Monday approved a minimum wage hike, but local organizers say exemptions in the new ordinance mean many low-wage workers will not see a pay bump.
Local and state chamber of commerce representatives praised the ordinance during the Monday City Council meeting, saying it strikes a fair balance of accommodating worker needs and business concerns.
“Your work has resulted in a policy that will support workers while mitigating the impacts to local businesses,” said Annie McGrath, president and CEO of the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce, during public comment.
But organizers with Raise the Wage Burien argue that a majority of minimum wage workers will see no difference in their pay because of exemptions in the ordinance, such as allowing businesses to use tips and benefits to count toward a worker’s required $2-$3 pay bump.
