Upcoming Increase in the Federal Minimum Wage

June 23, 2008

Upcoming Increase in the Federal Minimum Wage

In 2007, the U.S. Troops Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act (Public Law 110-28) amended the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 by increasing the federal minimum wage in three steps from $5.15 an hour:

to $5.85 an hour, effective July 24, 2007.
to $6.55 an hour, effective July 24, 2008.
to $7.25 an hour, effective July 24, 2009.

Accordingly, on July 24, 2008, the minimum wage will be raised to $6.55 an hour. This increased amount should be used for both the Economic Hardship (HRD) and Working Mother (PLWM) Deferment Request forms. Updated deferment forms are expected to be available soon.