Let’s talk wages in Missouri

The minimum wage in Missouri is $12.00 per hour for all employers, effective January 1, 2023. This is the result of a voter-approved initiative in 2018 that gradually increased the minimum wage from $7.85 to $12 over a five-year period.

There are a few exemptions to the minimum wage law in Missouri. Tipped workers are paid a lower minimum wage of $6.00 per hour, but they must also receive tips that bring their hourly earnings up to the minimum wage. Employees under the age of 18 are also paid a lower minimum wage of $8.40 per hour, but only if they are working in their first 90 days of employment.

The minimum wage is an important issue for many people in Missouri. It is a matter of fairness, economic security, and quality of life. The debate over the minimum wage is likely to continue for many years to come, but it is an issue that deserves our attention.

Missouri's minimum wage has seen recent updates, with incremental increases planned for subsequent years. These adjustments are part of a gradual process of phasing in a higher minimum wage in the state. Concerns have been raised about whether the current minimum wage adequately meets the needs of workers and their families, prompting debates on the topic. Supporters argue that increasing the minimum wage can help alleviate poverty and improve the standard of living for low-wage workers, while opponents voice concerns about potential job losses and negative effects on small businesses. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates regarding the minimum wage in Missouri to understand its impact on workers and the economy.