The bill, introduced by Representatives Jarrells and Mohamed, seeks to amend the Revised Code to increase Ohio's state minimum wage through a tiered schedule, ultimately reaching $15 per hour by January 1, 2030. The proposed increments include setting the minimum wage at $11 in 2026, $12 in 2027, $13 in 2028, and $14 in 2029, with future adjustments based on calculations by the director of commerce. Additionally, the bill prohibits any political subdivisions from establishing a minimum wage that differs from the state rate. It also mandates the director of commerce to adopt rules for implementation and requires employers to maintain records of employee wages and hours worked.

Moreover, the bill introduces new provisions that enhance employee rights regarding access to employment information, requiring employers to provide requested details about pay rates and hours worked within thirty business days. It outlines conditions for altering this timeframe and establishes a complaint process for employees regarding violations, ensuring confidentiality for complainants. The bill also repeals section 4111.07 of the Revised Code and clarifies that employers complying with information requests will be immune from civil liability. It emphasizes that agreements to work for less than the specified wage will not be defensible in legal actions, allowing civil actions against employers for violations within set timeframes, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in wage and hour regulations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4111.02, 4111.05, 4111.09, 4111.14, 4111.07