The Michigan House of Representatives and Senate passed, and the Governor quickly signed, legislation to increase the state’s minimum wage.
Key provisions of Senate Bill 8 include:
- Increasing Michigan’s minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2027.
- Implementing scheduled annual increases to ensure a gradual transition for businesses.
- Adjusting future wage hikes based on inflation to keep pace with economic conditions.
- Addresses the tipped minimum wage, setting it to reach 50% of the standard minimum wage by January 2031.
The state’s minimum wage has historically been a contentious issue, with prior increases often facing legal challenges and delays. The most recent significant adjustment was in 2014, when lawmakers approved a gradual increase to $9.25 per hour by 2018. However, advocacy groups have continued to push for higher wages to reflect the increasing cost of living.
Supporters argue that the new law provides long-term stability for workers. At the same time, opponents caution about potential impacts on small businesses.
As of February 21, 2025, Michigan’s minimum wage increased to $12.48 per hour.