Bill > HB1479

This bill, the Maryland Raise the Wage Act, aims to gradually increase the state's minimum wage. It establishes a new minimum wage of $15.00 per hour starting January 1, 2024, for all employers, and then raises it to $18.00 per hour for large employers (those with 50 or more employees) starting January 1, 2028, and for small employers (those with 49 or fewer employees) starting January 1, 2029. Beyond these set increases, the minimum wage will be adjusted annually based on the growth of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures inflation, with the Commissioner of Labor and Industry determining the exact rate. This CPI adjustment will be capped at a 5% increase per year and will not decrease if the CPI declines. The bill also clarifies that "small employer" now means an employer with 49 or fewer employees, an increase from the previous definition of 14 or fewer. Additionally, employers may pay employees under 18 years old 85% of the state minimum wage. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1479?ys=2026RS