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22 States to Raise Minimum Wage by 2026

1/1/2026

37 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

As of January 1, 2026, 22 states and Washington, D.C., will raise their minimum wages, benefiting millions of workers.
The highest wage will be in Washington, D.C., at $17.95 per hour, while Hawaii rises to $16 per hour.
Most increases take effect on January 1, but Alaska, Florida, and Oregon will implement theirs later in the year.
The federal minimum wage remains unchanged at $7.25 since 2009.

History

Historical Context

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 established a federal minimum wage of $0.25 per hour, marking a significant advancement in labor rights during the New Deal era. Despite adjustments over the years, the minimum wage has stagnated at $7.25 since 2009, prompting 22 states and Washington, D.C., to raise wages, reflecting ongoing debates about economic equity and fair compensation for workers.

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Story summary

As of January 1, 2026, 22 states and Washington, D.C., will raise their minimum wages, benefiting millions of workers.
The highest wage will be in Washington, D.C., at $17.95 per hour, while Hawaii rises to $16 per hour.
Most increases take effect on January 1, but Alaska, Florida, and Oregon will implement theirs later in the year.
The federal minimum wage remains unchanged at $7.25 since 2009.

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