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Bill

SD 904

An Act relative to a youth training wage

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ryan Fattman and 1 co-sponsor

Bill creates lower minimum wage tier for workers under 20 in first 90 days, reducing labor costs but potentially lowering youth earnings.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 904

Legislative bill overview

This bill would establish a lower minimum wage for workers under 20 years old in Massachusetts, creating a "youth training wage" tier below the standard minimum wage. The reduced wage would apply to employees in their first 90 days of employment or during apprenticeship and training programs.

Why is this important

Youth employment and wage policy affects economic opportunities for teenagers entering the workforce, labor market competitiveness for small businesses, and income inequality. Massachusetts currently has one of the highest state minimum wages in the nation, making this a significant departure from existing wage floors that currently apply equally to all workers.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on youth: Supporters argue lower entry wages increase hiring of inexperienced workers; critics contend it reduces earnings for vulnerable young workers and their families
  • Competitive disadvantage: Questions about whether businesses would preferentially hire youth at lower wages rather than invest in training adult workers
  • Consistency with state policy: Massachusetts has historically resisted tiered wage systems and set high minimum wages to reduce poverty; this reverses that approach
  • Implementation concerns: Defining "training" periods and preventing wage suppression beyond the 90-day window poses administrative challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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