Maryland HB1479 proposes to increase the state minimum wage incrementally, adjusting it annually based on consumer price index growth.

Maryland HB1479, known as the Maryland Raise the Wage Act, aims to incrementally raise the state minimum wage. It sets the minimum wage at $15.00 per hour starting January 1, 2024, and increases it to $18.00 per hour starting January 1, 2028. Each subsequent year, the minimum wage will adjust based on the average percent growth in the consumer price index, with a cap of 5% increase per year. Employers can pay a reduced wage of 85% of the minimum wage to employees under a certain age. The Commissioner of Labor and Industry will determine and announce the wage rate adjustments annually.

Maryland HB1479 proposes to increase the state minimum wage incrementally, adjusting it annually based on consumer price index growth.

Maryland HB1479, known as the Maryland Raise the Wage Act, aims to incrementally raise the state minimum wage. It sets the minimum wage at $15.00 per hour starting January 1, 2024, and increases it to $18.00 per hour starting January 1, 2028. Each subsequent year, the minimum wage will adjust based on the average percent growth in the consumer price index, with a cap of 5% increase per year. Employers can pay a reduced wage of 85% of the minimum wage to employees under a certain age. The Commissioner of Labor and Industry will determine and announce the wage rate adjustments annually.