Federal Increased Minimum Wages
On May 25, 2007, President George Bush signed into law a bill that increases the federal minimum wage for adult employees to $7.25 over the next two years. Effective July 24, 2007, the federal minimum wage will increase to $5.85 per hour. On July 24, 2008, the federal minimum wage for adult employees will increase to $6.55 per hour. Finally, on July 24, 2009, the federal minimum wage for adult employees will increase to $7.25 per hour. No changes were made to the minimum wage for opportunity employees, minor employees or tipped employees.
The Wisconsin minimum wage is currently $6.50 for adult employees. Currently, bills are pending that would increase Wisconsin's minimum wage for adult employees to $7.25 per hour effective September 1, 2007. If the legislation does not pass, there may be a further increase by administrative rule. However, if Wisconsin takes no action raising the minimum wage rate before July 24, 2008, Wisconsin employers will then need to increase the minimum wage for adult employees to $6.55 per hour to conform to the new federal minimum wage requirement.
von Briesen & Roper Legal Update is a periodic publication of von Briesen & Roper, s.c. It is intended for general information purposes for the community and highlights recent changes and developments in the legal area. This publication does not constitute legal advice, and the reader should consult legal counsel to determine how this information applies to any specific situation.