Bill > S1349

This bill proposes a multi-year plan to incrementally raise the minimum wage in Massachusetts, starting with increasing the current minimum wage from $15.00 to $16.25 in 2026, and continuing to raise it to $20.00 by 2029. The bill also introduces a new annual adjustment mechanism where the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development will calculate a minimum wage increase based on inflation each September, using the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for urban wage earners, with the new rate taking effect the following January. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the minimum wage policy applies to both public and private employers and declares it against public policy to pay an "oppressive and unreasonable wage." For tipped workers, their minimum wage will be set at 60% of the standard minimum wage as determined by the labor office. The bill phases in these changes over several years, with specific sections of the law taking effect on January 1st of successive years from 2026 to 2030, ultimately ensuring that the minimum wage more closely reflects the cost of living and maintains worker purchasing power over time.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1349