Florida minimum wage hits $15 an hour as final step of voter-approved plan takes effect

Florida’s minimum wage has officially increased to $15 an hour on Wednesday, marking the final step of a gradual increase approved by voters in 2020. Florida voters passed a constitutional amendment in 2020 that called for the minimum wage to increase gradually, eventually reaching $15. That final step is now in effect. For workers paid the minimum wage, their regular hourly rate cannot be less than $15, subject to applicable rules and exemptions. For tipped workers, the minimum direct wage an employer must pay is $11.98. Eligible tips can make up the difference between that direct wage and the $15 minimum, following federal tip-credit rules. The new $15 rate will remain in place through Dec. 31, 2027. After that, Florida’s minimum wage will no longer follow the same step-by-step schedule. Instead, the state will adjust the wage annually for inflation, with those adjustments taking effect the following January. Employers must ensure their payroll systems and required workplace notices reflect the new rate. Workers paid less than the required minimum can take legal action to recover unpaid wages. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV