Maryland State Wire

Maryland's Governor Wes Moore and legislative leaders are advocating for a quicker implementation of the $15 minimum wage. Currently, large employers in Maryland have until January 1, 2025, to comply with this wage increase, while smaller employers have until July 1, 2026. The new proposal aims to move the deadline up to October 1 of this year for all employers, regardless of their size.

Additionally, the proposed legislation would link future wage increases to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) starting in 2025. Critics argue that tying the minimum wage to CPI could lead to automatic yearly increases without consideration of other factors.

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is encouraging local business owners to share their personal experiences with legislators and express how these changes might impact their businesses. They suggest contacting lawmakers through various means and providing testimony if possible.

For those interested in opposing this proposal through testimony in Annapolis, contact Maryland Grassroots Manager Julianna Rauf at julianna.rauf@nfib.org or by phone at 518-414-6524.