State vs. Federal Minimum Wage- A Comprehensive Overview of Wage Laws Across the United States

Is minimum wage by state or federal? This question often arises when discussing the minimum wage laws in the United States. The answer is both. The minimum wage in the United States is determined by both state and federal laws, with states having the option to set their own minimum wage rates if they choose to do so. In this article, we will explore the minimum wage laws at both the state and federal levels, highlighting the differences and similarities between them.

The federal minimum wage, set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), is currently $7.25 per hour. This rate has remained unchanged since 2009, despite numerous calls for an increase. However, many states have chosen to set their minimum wage rates higher than the federal rate. As of 2021, 29 states and the District of Columbia have set their minimum wage rates above the federal level.

State minimum wage rates vary widely across the country. For example, California has the highest minimum wage at $14.00 per hour, while Wyoming has the lowest at $7.25, which is the same as the federal rate. Some states, like Oregon and Washington, have adopted a policy of gradually increasing their minimum wage to a certain level by a specific date, while others, like New York and Massachusetts, have established a higher minimum wage for certain industries or workers.

When it comes to tipped employees, the federal minimum wage is $2.13 per hour, provided that their tips plus wages equal or exceed the federal minimum wage. However, many states have set their own minimum wage rates for tipped employees, which are often higher than the federal rate. For example, Massachusetts requires employers to pay tipped employees at least $3.75 per hour, while New York requires a minimum of $8.86 per hour.

Another significant difference between state and federal minimum wage laws is the inclusion of tipped employees. While the federal minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13, some states have eliminated the tip credit altogether. For instance, California, Oregon, and Washington have no tip credit, meaning employers must pay their tipped employees the full state minimum wage.

As the debate over minimum wage continues, it is important to understand the complex interplay between state and federal laws. While the federal government sets a baseline minimum wage, states have the power to set their own rates, often reflecting the unique economic conditions and values of their respective populations.

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网友评论：

1. “It’s great to see the differences in minimum wage laws across states. It’s fascinating how some states have higher rates than others.”
2. “I didn’t know that tipped employees have different minimum wage rates. That’s interesting to learn.”
3. “It’s important for workers to be aware of the minimum wage laws in their state. This article helps with that.”
4. “I think it’s good that some states are gradually increasing their minimum wage. It’s a step in the right direction.”
5. “I wish more states would eliminate the tip credit for tipped employees. It’s not fair.”
6. “The federal minimum wage hasn’t been increased in over a decade. It’s about time we see some changes.”
7. “It’s sad that some states have a minimum wage lower than the federal rate. That’s not right.”
8. “I appreciate the information on how minimum wage laws affect tipped employees. It’s something I wasn’t aware of.”
9. “I think it’s important for states to have the power to set their own minimum wage rates. It allows for more flexibility.”
10. “I’ve always wondered how minimum wage laws are determined. This article answered my questions.”
11. “It’s interesting to see how the minimum wage debate varies from state to state.”
12. “I agree that the federal minimum wage should be increased. It’s not enough to live on.”
13. “I’m glad to see that some states are taking matters into their own hands and raising their minimum wage.”
14. “It’s great that this article highlights the differences between state and federal minimum wage laws.”
15. “I think it’s important for everyone to be aware of the minimum wage laws in their state.”
16. “It’s sad that some states have a minimum wage lower than the federal rate. That’s not fair to workers.”
17. “I appreciate the detailed explanation of the minimum wage laws in this article.”
18. “I think it’s important for states to have the power to set their own minimum wage rates. It allows for more flexibility.”
19. “It’s great to see that some states are raising their minimum wage for certain industries or workers.”
20. “I agree that the federal minimum wage should be increased. It’s not enough to live on.