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Bill

HD 3850

An Act relative to raising the minimum wage closer to a living wage in the commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 6 co-sponsors

Summary of HD 3850: Raising the Minimum Wage to a Living Wage Bill OverviewThis proposed legislation, titled "An Act relative to raising the minimum wage closer to a living wage in

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Bill Summary · HD 3850

Summary of HD 3850: Raising the Minimum Wage to a Living Wage

Bill Overview

This proposed legislation, titled "An Act relative to raising the minimum wage closer to a living wage in the commonwealth", aims to incrementally increase the minimum wage in Massachusetts to a level that more closely aligns with a living wage.

Key Provisions

  • Raises the current minimum wage of $13.50 per hour to:
    • $15.00 per hour by January 1, 2026
    • $16.50 per hour by January 1, 2027
    • $18.00 per hour by January 1, 2028
  • Requires the minimum wage to be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) starting in 2029.
  • Eliminates the lower minimum wage for tipped workers, requiring them to be paid the full minimum wage.
  • Provides tax credits to small businesses with fewer than 20 employees to help offset the increased labor costs.

Potential Impact

  • Approximately 25% of all workers in Massachusetts, or 900,000 people, are expected to see their wages increase under this bill.
  • It is estimated this will lift over 150,000 workers and their families out of poverty in the state.
  • Opponents argue the wage increases could lead to job losses, particularly among small businesses, and increased costs that get passed on to consumers.
  • Proponents contend that a higher minimum wage will stimulate the economy, improve worker productivity and retention, and reduce reliance on social assistance programs.

Timeline

  • The bill was introduced in the state legislature on November 29, 2025.
  • If passed, the minimum wage would start increasing on January 1, 2026, with further increments over the following two years.
  • The annual CPI adjustments to the minimum wage would begin in 2029.

Overall, this legislation seeks to make meaningful progress towards ensuring workers in Massachusetts can earn a true living wage to cover basic needs and improve their standard of living.

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

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