2026 Regular Session
HB 5485
Relating to increasing the state minimum wage.
In Committee
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill proposes to increase West Virginia’s state minimum wage over a period of years. Starting in 2027, employers would be required to pay a minimum wage of $11.00 per hour. The bill also addresses training wages, allowing for a lower wage for newly hired employees for a limited time, subject to federal guidelines. Finally, it clarifies that the state’s minimum wage cannot fall below the federal minimum wage.
Key provisions
- Increases the state minimum wage to $11.00 per hour, effective January 1, 2027.
- Establishes a phased-in approach to the minimum wage increase, with rates rising incrementally each year.
- Allows for a subminimum training wage for newly hired employees, subject to federal guidelines and limitations.
- Specifies that the state’s minimum wage cannot fall below the federal minimum wage.
- Applies the minimum wage to employees of the State of West Virginia and its agencies.
- References federal wage laws (29 U.S.C. §206) for determining minimum wage rates.
Who is affected
- Employers
- Employees
- Businesses
- State Government Employees
- Low-Wage Workers
Notable changes
- The bill significantly increases the state minimum wage, representing a substantial change from the previous rate.
- It incorporates federal minimum wage standards, ensuring alignment with federal law.
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