NEW JERSEY’S MINIMUM WAGE RISES TO $15.13

New Jersey's minimum wage reached $15.13 on New Year's Day, marking the final step in the planned increases since 2019. The state aims to continue raising the wage floor in future years, with adjustments based on inflation. Governor Phil Murphy suggests the possibility of further increases to $18 or $20 per hour.

However, some workers, like seasonal employees and those in small businesses, will experience slower increases, reaching $13.73 by 2026. Agricultural workers received an 80-cent increase, with ongoing evaluations to determine if their minimum wage should continue rising. Despite progress, concerns persist, particularly regarding exemptions affecting tipped and agricultural workers, and the rising cost of living.