What a New Trump Administration Could Mean for Washington State’s Labor Laws

As the U.S. anticipates the return of a Trump administration, workers and employers alike in Washington state are wondering what this shift might mean for local labor laws and protections. While the federal government sets the tone on many national labor policies, Washington has often been at the forefront of progressive worker protections. This post examines how potential changes at the federal level could interact with Washington’s labor landscape and what this could mean for employees and employers alike.

Photo by Chevanon Photography: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-wears-yellow-hard-hat-holding-vehicle-part-1108101/

Overtime Regulations

One major area of focus in recent years has been overtime eligibility. The Trump administration previously set the threshold for salaried workers eligible for overtime pay at $35,568 annually, lower than the Obama administration’s initial proposal. Meanwhile, the Biden administration increased this limit to $43,888 in 2024, with plans for a further increase to $58,656 in 2025. In Washington, however, state laws provide a higher threshold than the federal level, meaning many workers in the state are still eligible for overtime, regardless of any changes a new Trump administration might implement. If the administration reverts to its previous, lower threshold, the impact on Washington would be minimal, given the state’s more generous protections.

Union Influence and Collective Bargaining

Historically, a Trump administration has leaned pro-business, with actions that critics claim diminished union power. In Washington state, which has a strong union presence and a high rate of unionized workers, a federal shift towards weakening union influence could complicate efforts for collective bargaining but is unlikely to dismantle existing structures. The state’s pro-union laws, along with its history of strong labor movements, could provide a buffer against federal changes. However, Washington unions may still feel pressure as the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) might return to a less labor-friendly stance.

Worker Classification and the Gig Economy

Worker classification, especially concerning gig economy workers, has been a hot-button issue. The Trump administration previously supported broader definitions of independent contractors, potentially reducing benefits like health insurance, paid leave, and retirement savings for gig workers. While a return to such policies could impact workers nationwide, Washington state already has ongoing legislative discussions around gig workers and worker classification. Washington lawmakers and advocates may intensify efforts to establish statewide protections for gig workers, aiming to counterbalance any federal rollback.

Regulatory Rollbacks and Employment Standards

Trump’s platform has included goals to reduce regulatory burdens across industries. This could mean decreased federal oversight on employment standards, workplace safety, and enforcement of labor protections. In response, Washington state may step up its own regulatory frameworks, as it has done in other areas, to maintain high standards for worker rights. For example, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries has been a leader in setting state-specific health and safety standards that often go beyond federal OSHA requirements.

Immigration Policies and Labor Supply

One of the most immediate ways a Trump administration could affect labor markets, especially in sectors like agriculture and hospitality, would be through tighter immigration policies and potential mass deportations. Washington has a significant immigrant workforce, and restrictive immigration policies could create labor shortages and drive up wages in industries dependent on immigrant labor. It remains to be seen how local businesses might adjust to such changes, but Washington’s agricultural sector could feel substantial impacts if such policies come to pass.

Conclusion

For Washington state, a new Trump administration might feel less impactful in day-to-day labor policies, thanks to the state’s commitment to robust worker protections. However, employers and workers in specific sectors—such as gig work, agriculture, and unionized industries—should stay informed and proactive in understanding how federal policies could influence their rights and responsibilities. At Stockwell Law Firm, we’re committed to helping Washington workers and businesses navigate these potential changes, providing resources and guidance to ensure they remain compliant and protected under state and federal laws.