The bill H. 3226 aims to establish a state minimum wage in South Carolina by adding Section 41-1-125 to the South Carolina Code of Laws. The proposed minimum wage will start at $8.75 per hour on January 1, 2026, and will gradually increase to $9.75 per hour in 2027 and $10.10 per hour in 2028. After 2028, the minimum wage will be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. The Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation will be responsible for calculating and notifying employers and employees of these adjustments.

Additionally, the bill makes it unlawful for employers to retaliate against employees for reporting violations of the minimum wage law. It provides remedies for violations, including the ability for aggrieved individuals to file civil actions for unpaid wages and damages, with a five-year statute of limitations. The Attorney General is also granted the authority to enforce the provisions of this section, which includes seeking injunctive relief and imposing fines for violations. The bill allows for class action lawsuits under state law for those affected by violations.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 41-1-125
Latest Version: 41-1-125
12/06/2024: 41-1-125