In an indication of how much traction the minimum wage movement has gained statewide, the Washington Restaurant Association, which has opposed immediate citywide minimum wage hikes to $15, said Thursday it now actively supports raising the state’s minimum wage.

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“Our state now has multiple different minimum wages with the likelihood of many more to come. It’s creating a checkerboard of wage laws that are difficult on everyone,” Anthony Anton, Washington Restaurant Association president and CEO, said in a news release. “We are looking for a positive statewide solution. Restaurants are calling for local and state lawmakers to join together to find an answer.”

Anton’s statement called for “an increase in minimum wage done the right way. We have learned through local discussions that there are ways to support neighborhood restaurants and raise compensation for employees.”

Washington’s current minimum wage is $9.47, the highest in the nation. But next year several states will surpass that level.

The restaurant group did not say what new minimum it would support.

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