Aaron Keating with the Economic Opportunity Institute says even though our state's minimum wage is pegged to inflation, it isn't enough to cover basic daily expenses.
Still, he says the increase will stimulate the state's economy.
Keating says a single adult in Whatcom County would need to earn at least $10.25 per hour to be self-sufficient.
A working couple with an infant would need to earn $23.60 per hour.
Washington already has the highest minimum wage in the country.
It's one of ten states that adjust the minimum wage based on inflation.
