The bill proposes changes to the General Laws in Chapter 28-12 entitled "Minimum Wages." Specifically, it repeals Section 28-12-3.1, which previously allowed employers to pay minors aged fourteen and fifteen years less than the standard minimum wage—specifically, seventy-five percent of the minimum wage. Additionally, the bill amends Section 28-12-5, which pertains to employees who receive gratuities as part of their income. The amendment includes a provision that employers must pay a cash wage of at least $2.89 per hour, with scheduled increases to $3.39 and then to $3.89 per hour in subsequent years. Employers must provide substantial evidence to deduct gratuities from the minimum wage, and employees are entitled to a hearing if they dispute the amount of the deduction.

The legislative explanation clarifies that the act would eliminate the ability of employers to pay certain minor employees and full-time students under nineteen years of age less than the minimum hourly wage. As a result, all minors and full-time students would be entitled to earn at least the minimum hourly wage. The act would become effective immediately upon passage. Notably, the bill removes the language that previously allowed for a lower wage for minors and certain full-time students, ensuring that these groups receive the same minimum wage protections as other workers.

Statutes affected:
7172: 28-12-3.1, 28-12-5