(1) The director may issue a special certificate to an employer authorizing the employer to pay the following employees at a wage rate that is less than the applicable minimum wage rate:

(a) An employee who is physically or mentally handicapped to such a degree that he or she is unable to obtain employment in the competitive labor market;

(b) A trainee or learner not subject to the jurisdiction of the Washington state apprenticeship and training council under chapter 49.04 RCW; or

(c) A student learner.

(2) The director shall fix the reduced minimum wage and issue a special certificate only where the director determines that an employer has applied for it in good faith.

(3) The director shall fix the duration of the validity of the certificate.