Bill > SJR9

This Joint Resolution proposes an amendment to the New Mexico Constitution to establish a state minimum wage that will automatically increase each year based on the rate of inflation, specifically measured by the U.S. city average consumer price index for all items. However, this annual increase will be capped at a maximum of four percent. The resolution also outlines that the minimum wage will be adjusted starting July 1, 2017, and then annually on January 1 thereafter, with the adjusted rate published by September 1 each year. Importantly, the minimum wage will not decrease if the cost of living goes down, and employers can pay tipped employees less than the minimum wage if their tips bring their total earnings up to the minimum. Furthermore, local governments will still be permitted to set their own minimum wage rates that are higher than the state's. This proposed constitutional amendment will be put to a vote by the public at the next general election.