As of Tuesday, September 30, Florida will officially raise its minimum wage to $14 per hour, in alignment with the constitutional amendment approved by state voters in 2020. This automatic increase is part of a gradual plan designed to reach $15 per hour by 2026, far surpassing the stagnant federal minimum wage of $7.25, which has remained unchanged for 16 years.
According to Telemundo 31, this adjustment will also affect tipped workers, whose base pay will increase from $9.98 to $10.98 per hour by the end of September. Currently, Florida stands out as one of the states with a minimum wage higher than the federal standard. As reported by AS USA, legislation mandates that post-2026, any further increases will be tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This ensures that wages can keep pace with inflation, preserving workers' purchasing power.
Steady Progress Towards $15 and Beyond
The path to this increase began in 2021 when the minimum wage was set at $10 per hour. Each September 30 since then, an additional dollar has been added, culminating in this year's $14 rate. By 2026, the anticipated $15 per hour threshold will be reached, while tipped employees will see a minimum wage of $11.98 per hour.
This rate will remain effective until December 2027, after which increases will be determined by inflation indices. This framework is intended to ensure that wages reflect the actual cost of living in Florida.
A Significant Change for the Workforce
This adjustment directly impacts hundreds of thousands of workers in industries such as hospitality, services, and retail, where the Latino community, including thousands of Cubans, plays a significant role. For many, this increase offers relief amidst the high cost of living in cities like Miami, Orlando, or Tampa.
With this change, Florida joins over 20 states offering minimum wages above the federal level. In a landscape where more workers annually rely on these measures to cope with rising expenses in housing, food, and other essentials, Florida's move is a crucial step in supporting its workforce.
Key Questions About Florida's Minimum Wage Increase
Why is Florida increasing its minimum wage?
The increase is part of a constitutional amendment approved by voters in 2020, aiming to gradually raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2026, significantly higher than the federal minimum.
How will this wage increase affect tipped workers?
Tipped workers will see their base pay rise from $9.98 to $10.98 per hour, ensuring they benefit from the overall wage increase.
What happens after 2026 regarding wage increases?
Post-2026, wage increases will be linked to the Consumer Price Index, allowing wages to keep up with inflation and maintain workers' purchasing power.