This bill proposes an amendment to the Code of West Virginia, specifically 21-5C-2, to establish a mechanism for adjusting the minimum wage based on the consumer price index (CPI). The new provision, inserted as subsection (d), mandates that the minimum wage be increased annually on September 1 to reflect any increase in the CPI as calculated by the United States Department of Labor for the preceding year. This adjustment aims to ensure that the minimum wage keeps pace with inflation and the cost of living.

The bill retains existing minimum wage rates and conditions while introducing this annual adjustment to enhance the economic stability of workers earning minimum wage. It emphasizes that the minimum wage cannot fall below the federal minimum wage and that the subminimum training wage must also comply with federal standards. Overall, the bill seeks to provide a more responsive and equitable wage structure for employees in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 21-5C-2