The federal hourly minimum wage has been US$7.50 per hour for more than 10 years, but Florida, like other states, has legislated its own and, based on that power, has been applying a gradual increase that benefits millions of workers. Find out what this measure is about, which must be applied until 2016 and what will happen afterward.
Florida has a high cost of living. Its inflation is the highest in the country, according to data from the consumer price index (CPI), since in August 2023 it reached 7.8%, which is above the federal average (3.7%). There are cities in the State of the Sunshine where this percentage can reach 9%, especially due to the high cost of housing.
The measure of the salary increase, therefore, represents, in part, a relief for the working class. And, although it had been warned that, in return, it could cause greater unemployment, the unemployment rate remains at 2.7% (303,020 unemployed) and the state’s workforce grew to a total of 10 million 817 thousand 9, according to the Florida Department of Commerce. The federal unemployment rate was 3.8% in August.
HOW IS THE INCREASE IN THE MINIMUM WAGE CARRIED OUT IN FLORIDA?
In the November 2020 elections, in the middle of the pandemic, citizens voted in favor of Amendment 2 to increase the minimum wage gradually until 2026 and for it to reach US$15. This request was approved by legislators in 2021, when that year the payment was US$8.65 per hour.
When did the salary scale start to be applied?
The measure began to be applied in 2022, which has benefited a quarter of the workforce, estimated at a total of 2.5 million people, according to the Florida Policy Instituteespecially in the food service, accommodation and retail industries.
However, companies and businesses throughout the Sunshine State, especially those affected by the loss of the COVID-19 pandemic, believe that paying higher minimum wages will lead to reduced work hours and even job cuts. .
Regardless, Florida employers are required to post the current minimum wage in their workplace where an employee can see it.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM HOURLY WAGE IN FLORIDA?
According to Amendment 2, As of September 30, 2023, the minimum wage in Florida increased to US$12.00 per hour. Therefore, each extra hour will be US$18 per hour. For tipped employees the salary is US$8.98.
All Florida employers must post the current minimum wage in their workplace where an employee can see it.
THE SCALE OF SALARY INCREASES IN FLORIDA UNTIL 2026
Florida’s minimum hourly wage will increase by $1 each year until it reaches $15 per hour on September 30, 2026. The changes begin on September 30, 2022. See the scale:
- 2022: Minimum wage rose to US$11 per hour.
- 2023: Minimum wage will rise to US$12 per hour.
- 2024: Minimum wage will rise to US$13 per hour.
- 2025: Minimum wage will rise to US$14 per hour.
- 2026: Minimum wage will rise to US$15 per hour.
WHAT WILL THE INCREASES BE LIKE IN FLORIDA FROM 2027?
After Florida’s minimum wage reaches US$15 per hour on September 30, 2026, the measure will be in effect until December 31, 2026, starting in 2027, the amount will be adjusted each year, according to the inflation index in the country.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY EMPLOYER DOES NOT PAY MY MINIMUM HOURLY WAGE?
According to Department of Commerce In Florida, an employee who has not received the legal minimum wage after having notified his employer and given fifteen (15) days to resolve any claim for unpaid wages has the right to file a civil action against an employer in a court of law to recover back wages, as well as damages and attorneys’ fees. Employers may not retaliate against employees who exercise their right to receive the minimum wage.