NEVADA – Starting July 1, some Nevadans will receive a slight raise as the state’s minimum wage climbs from $10.50 to $11.25 per hour. However, this increase remains significantly below the amount necessary to cover the average rent and childcare costs.

In 2019, Nevada lawmakers passed legislation mandating incremental annual increases in the minimum wage until it reaches $12 in 2024. While advocacy groups pushed for a $15 minimum wage, Democratic legislative leaders compromised with business organizations and settled on the $12 rate, considering it more acceptable.

At $11.25 per hour, based on an average 40-hour workweek, individuals will earn approximately $23,000 annually before taxes.

Compared to other states, Nevada’s minimum wage hike is relatively modest. Business for a Fair Minimum Wage reports that Oregon’s minimum wage will increase from $13.50 to $14.20 per hour on July 1. Moreover, Portland will experience a separate adjustment to $15.45, while “non-urban counties” will see an increase to $13.20.

Due to Nevada’s adherence to Dillon’s rule, which limits local authorities to actions explicitly authorized by the state, individual cities or counties cannot implement their own wage increases without legislative approval.

During the most recent legislative session, state lawmakers did not take any measures to address the minimum wage.

The final scheduled increase to $12 will go into effect on July 1, 2024. Concurrently, Nevada will eliminate its two-tiered system, which currently permits employers offering health insurance to pay their employees $1 less per hour.

While the minimum wage in Nevada experiences gradual growth, concerns persist regarding its adequacy in meeting the rising costs of living. Advocates continue to push for higher wages that reflect the true expenses workers and their families face.

Credits: Reno Gazette

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