You don't have to buy workplace posters -- they're free

We recently warned about a new scam targeting small business owners in our state. Cons claiming to be federal government representatives used coercive tactics to hawk labor law posters in Tacoma.

Businesses across the country are required to display certain signs to inform employees about safety, worker rights and other regulations. By July 24, all employers must change their federal minimum wage poster to reflect the increase from $5.15 to $7.25 per hour. The new standard has many private vendors aggressively marketing their wares. Their posters are sometimes laminated but they contain the same information as those you can get for free from state and government agencies.

Check out the state Department of Labor & Industries Web site for a list of posters you can download or have mailed to you.