AN ACT RELATING TO LABOR AND LABOR RELATIONS -- MINIMUM WAGES

SB 215 increases the minimum cash wage for tipped workers (like restaurant servers) from $3.89 to $6.75 per hour, effective January 1, 2026. It directly affects employees in restaurants, hotels, and similar service industries who rely on tips as part of their income, excluding taxicab drivers. The bill sets a new hourly cash wage floor that employers must pay, ensuring tipped workers earn at least $6.75/hour without relying on tip deductions. This change follows a phased increase schedule, raising the current $3.89 floor by $2.86 over time. The law applies to all qualifying employers in these industries and takes effect upon passage.