Cities
Conflicting laws, lawsuits, and already high wage rates in Burien leave uncertainty for workers and businesses.
BURIEN — The Burien City Council will revisit the city’s minimum wage rules on Monday, April 6, as confusion continues over which law governs pay for local workers.
Burien already has one of the highest minimum wages in Washington. Both sections of city code currently in effect set wage requirements significantly above the state minimum, depending on employer size and structure.
At issue are two separate sections of city code—Chapter 5.15 and Chapter 5.16—that take different approaches to how that wage is calculated and enforced.
Chapter 5.15, adopted by the council, allows tips to count toward wages, includes exemptions for certain workers, and sets different standards for small businesses. Chapter 5.16, passed by voters in November through an initiative backed by the Transit Riders Union, does not allow tips to count toward wages, applies broader protections, and includes additional enforcement provisions such as a five-year statute of limitations and “fair access” to hours for part-time workers.
Because Chapter 5.16 was approved by voters, it cannot be repealed without another vote. Chapter 5.15, however, can be amended or repealed by the council.
Legal disputes still unfolding
The policy conflict has been compounded by ongoing legal action.
On Feb. 25, 2025, the City of Burien filed a lawsuit against the Transit Riders Union and organizer, now Seattle Mayor, Katie Wilson. That case (25-2-06332-1 KNT) remains active, with an injunction in place.
An earlier lawsuit filed by the union and Wilson in December 2024 was dismissed without trial on Nov. 25, 2025.
Huckleberry Square Restaurant LLC has since joined the case, arguing the outcome could affect its business rights and responsibilities. A hearing is scheduled for May 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. before Judge Poydras in King County Superior Court.
What happens next
Councilmembers will consider whether to direct staff to continue drafting Ordinance No. 892, which would repeal and amend Chapter 5.15 to better align with the voter-approved law.
No final decision is expected Monday, but the discussion signals continued movement on an issue that has been evolving since Burien first raised its minimum wage above the state level in 2025.
For workers, employers, and residents, this remains a developing situation—and one worth watching closely.
Next Council Meeting
Monday, April 6, 2026 • 5:30 p.m.
Burien City Hall, 400 SW 152nd St | Virtual: Zoom link
Watch live on Channel 21 or City livestream.
AGENDA | AGENDA PACKET
Members Discussion
Highline Journal Comment Guidelines
We believe thoughtful conversation helps communities flourish. We welcome respectful, on-topic comments that engage ideas, not individuals. Personal attacks, harassment, hateful comments, directed profanity, false claims, spam, or sharing private information aren't allowed. Comments aren't edited and may be removed if they violate these guidelines.