Bill signed for Minimum Wage Hikes in New York
As far as increasing the minimum wage to $15 an hour, New York State and California are in lockstep. Both governors signed bills on April 4. 2016.
New York’s bill is very detailed and the following are some the ways minimum wage increases are to be implemented.
Large Businesses (11 employees or more)
- Minimum wages increase to $11 by the end of 2016
- Minimum wages increase by $2.00 each year after
- Minimum wages reach $15 by 12/31/2018
Small Businesses (10 employees or fewer)
- Minimum wages increase to $10.50 by the end of 2016
- Minimum wages increase by $1.50 each year after
- Minimum wages reach $15 by 12/31/2019
Nassau, Suffolk and Westchester Counties businesses
- Minimum wages increase to $10 by the end of 2016
- Minimum wages increase by $1.50 each year after
- Minimum wages reach $15 by 12/31/2021
The rest of NY State businesses
- Minimum wages increase to $9.70 by the end of 2016
- Minimum wages increase $.70 each year after
- Minimum wages reach $12.50 by 12/31/2020
The Director of the Division of Budget in collaboration with the DOL will decide on further increases to reach $15 an hour
Analysis and Review
The bill also has a built in safety net for increases. In 2019, the state DOB Director is to analyze the effect of minimum wages on each economy region. Based on findings, the Director has the power to suspend minimum wage increases, if necessary.
Source: New York State website
Of course, complying with minimum wage changes has legal and regulatory implications. Our attorneys at Stephen Hans & Associates, are glad to answer your questions and help you deal with the nuances of how this may affect your business. We can advise regarding legal steps you need to take.