Bill > HB5485

This bill proposes to increase the state minimum wage in West Virginia from its current rate to $11.00 per hour, effective January 1, 2027. The bill amends existing law, which currently sets the minimum wage at $8.75 per hour after December 31, 2015, and also references the federal minimum wage rate found in 29 U.S.C. §206(a)(1). The proposed change specifically adds a new provision stating that after December 31, 2026, employers must pay employees at least $11.00 per hour, while retaining the existing language that requires employers to pay at least the federal minimum wage if it is higher. The bill also includes provisions for a "training wage," which allows employers to pay a lower rate to new employees for a limited time, and this training wage is also subject to federal minimum wage adjustments. Importantly, the bill clarifies that these state minimum wage requirements apply to all state employees, regardless of federal applicability, but the state minimum wage will not fall below the federal minimum.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5485&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill