Relating to requiring employees that receive gratuities be paid at least the established state minimum wage hourly rate.

HB 4199 amends West Virginia's minimum wage law to ensure employees who receive gratuities (like tips) earn at least the state minimum wage per hour. It allows employers to take a credit of up to 70% of the minimum wage for gratuities received by tipped employees, but only if the employee's total earnings (base wage plus tips) meet or exceed the minimum wage for each hour worked. Employers must maintain records proving this total meets the minimum wage and provide documentation to the state upon request. The bill directly affects tipped workers and their employers in West Virginia, clarifying that tip credits cannot reduce total pay below the minimum wage.