Spokane's Employment Preemption: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles employment preemption a little differently. In Spokane, Washington, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Paid Leave Preemption

Spokane workers receive Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave benefits under RCW 49.86, plus city-mandated earned sick leave under SMC Chapter 1.06 since 2016. Both layer onto state Paid Sick Leave under RCW 49.46.210.

Key details: PFML statute: RCW 49.86. PFML duration: Up to 12 weeks. Sick leave accrual: 1 hour per 40. City sick ordinance: SMC Ch. 1.06.

PFML violations are enforced by the Washington Employment Security Department; sick leave violations can trigger L&I investigations with back pay, double damages, and civil penalties.

Minimum Wage Preemption

Spokane uses the Washington statewide minimum wage of $16.66 per hour as of 2026 under RCW 49.46.020. The state preempts most local wage variation, though some cities like Seattle and SeaTac have higher local minimums.

Key details: 2026 rate: $16.66 per hour. Statute: RCW 49.46.020. Tip credit: Not allowed in WA. Annual adjustment: January CPI.

Wage theft can be reported to the Washington Department of Labor and Industries; double damages plus attorney fees are available under RCW 49.52.070.

The Bottom Line

Spokane's employment preemption rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Spokane is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Spokane can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.