The federal minimum wage in the United States is currently $7.25 per hour for covered nonexempt employees. This rate is mandated across the nation, setting a baseline for the lowest hourly wage that most employers must pay their employees.
However, it’s important to note that many states have also enacted their own minimum wage laws. In situations where both federal and state minimum wage laws apply to an employee, the employee is legally entitled to receive the higher of the two minimum wages. This means that in states with a minimum wage exceeding the federal level, employers are obligated to comply with the state’s higher rate.
The provisions for the federal minimum wage are established within the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). It is the FLSA that outlines the requirements for minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and child labor standards affecting full-time and part-time workers in the private sector and in Federal, State, and local governments. It’s crucial to understand that while the FLSA sets the minimum wage, it does not handle wage payment disputes or the collection of wages beyond the legally required minimum. For issues concerning unpaid promised wages or commissions exceeding the federal minimum, some states provide legal avenues for employees to pursue claims.
The enforcement and administration of the federal minimum wage law fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. This division is responsible for ensuring compliance with labor laws, including the FLSA, and provides resources and assistance to both employees and employers to understand their rights and responsibilities under these laws.
For further information and detailed resources on this topic, the Department of Labor offers several helpful webpages, including overviews, historical context, state-specific wage laws, compliance assistance, and answers to frequently asked questions regarding the minimum wage. These resources are readily available on the Department of Labor’s website for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of federal and state minimum wage regulations.
