Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), covered employers must pay employees at least a minimum wage (currently $5.15 per hour) for all hours they work. If a state has a minimum wage that is higher than the federal minimum, employers are obligated to pay the higher rate to employees working in that state. The FLSA includes exceptions to the minimum wage requirements for certain individuals with a mental or physical disability, full-time students employed in certain jobs, and employees under 20 years old during their first 90 consecutive calendar days of employment. Covered employers must post notices outlining the federal minimum wage requirements.
Will Minimum Wage Hike Hurt Businesses, Economy?
Most HR professionals don't think that this summer's increase to the federal minimum wage will adversely affect their company or the economy as a whole--but others aren't so sure, according to a recent Compensation.BLR.com poll.
Maine Governor Signs Minimum Wage Bill
Maine Governor John E. Baldacci on April 17 signed a bill that will increase the state's minimum wage a total of 50 cents over the next 18 months.
