Business Expert Session: Basics of Hiring Employees with Washington Department of LNI and Seattle Office of Labor Standards
September 9 @ 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
FreeMore Information / Register
This course provides an overview of the most up-to-date information and requirements for what you need to know as a small business owner with employees – or if you will soon be hiring – in both the State of Washington as well as in the City of Seattle.
Washington’s Labor & Industries Department and Seattle’s Office of Labor Standards will help guide you through the basics, including providing some additional resources to support compliance with these laws and a Q&A session following the course to help answer your specific questions.
Business Impact NW is proud to partner with the Seattle Office of Labor Standards (OLS) to provide outreach and education about Seattle’s labor standards.
We will discuss:
- Minimum Wage
- Paid Sick & Safe Time (PSST)
- Fair Chance Employment
- Wage Theft
- Commuter Benefits
- Additional standards that apply to Seattle based businesses.
About the Presenters
Maggie Hammond – Assistant Small Business Liaison, Department of Labor & Industries

Maggie has been working with Labor and Industries since January 2024. After a career in teaching, Maggie knew she wanted to continue working in public service. For her, helping others learn and succeed is what makes work fulfilling. Maggie’s background, rich in teaching strategies and small business experience, have prepared her to support small business owners across the state.
Lynette Vargas Garcia – Business Advisor, Business Impact NW

Lynette Vargas Garcia serves as a Business Advisor at Business Impact NW, working with clients across the four-state region. Fluent in English and Spanish, she provides mentorship and training to entrepreneurs, assisting them with business plan development, financial projections, and market research. She empowers clients to promote and grow their businesses while implementing essential procedures effectively. With a background in business consulting, marketing, and training, Lynette has successfully delivered impactful programs that enhance client engagement and outcomes.
Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact [email protected] or call (206) 324-4330


