More States Announce Minimum Wage Increases for 2013

Each year there are ten states that adjust their minimum wage rates for an increase in the cost of living. The increase is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) which rose 1.7% since August 2011. If you read our last blog post you already know that Montana’s minimum wage will increase 15 cents to $7.80 per hour next year.

Here is the minimum wage wrap-up so far:

Current rate       2013 Minimum Wage          Increase

• Colorado:     $7.64/hr,             (Proposed) $7.78/hr       14 cents
• Montana:     $7.65/hr               $7.80/hr                         15 cents
• Ohio:           $7.70/hr               $7.85/hr                         15 cents
• Oregon:       $8.80/hr               $8.95/hr                         15 cents
• Washington: $9.04/hr              $9.19/hr                         15 cents

We are still waiting for announcements from Arizona, Florida, Missouri, and Vermont. Nevada usually announces minimum wage increases in April.

What does this mean?

This means that employers in these states will be required to post an updated Minimum Wage posting for 2013. Washington employers get a break. That state discontinued its Minimum Wage posting a couple of years ago.

You might also see a minimum wage proposal on the ballot in your state in November. Some cities also adjust the local minimum wage rate each year. More changes to come. Stay tuned!