Even as New York employers adjust to the increased $8.75 per hour state minimum wage which went into effect on December 31, 2014, and prepare for the further increase to $9.00 per hour which will occur on December 31, 2015, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is pushing for additional increases. Citing the fact that the wage gap continues to grow, Governor Cuomo in this month’s State of the State address stated he intends to propose another minimum wage increase to take effect at the end of 2016. Interestingly, Governor Cuomo’s proposal includes a bifurcated minimum wage system, setting the minimum wage at $11.50 for New York City and $10.50 for the rest of the state. Governor Cuomo’s 2015 budget proposal, the “2015 Opportunity Agenda,” released on January 21, 2015, includes this minimum wage increase.
Last year, we reported on a number of minimum wage increases; states from Vermont, to Connecticut, to Maryland, and even Hawaii, passed significant minimum wage increases. Even municipalities got in on the act, passing increases to as much as $15.00 per hour. Judging from Governor Cuomo’s comments, it seems this trend may not slow down any time soon. Nevertheless, it is important to remember Governor Cuomo’s idea is only a proposal for now. It remains to be seen if or how it will be implemented. We will continue to monitor the situation and update you if these additional increases become law.
Brody and Associates regularly advises management on complying with state and federal employment laws including wage and hour laws. If we can be of assistance in this area, please contact us at info@brodyandassociates.com or 203.965.0560.
