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HB 740

Minimum wage; establish at $15.00 and set requirements for exemptions and overtime.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kabir Karriem

Mississippi bill would raise state minimum wage from $7.25 to $15.00 per hour and establish overtime requirements, affecting low-wage workers and small business operations statewide.

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Bill Summary · HB 740

Legislative bill overview

HB 740 would establish Mississippi's minimum wage at $15.00 per hour and create a framework for exemptions and overtime requirements. Currently, Mississippi follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. This bill would more than double the state's minimum wage floor.

Why is this important

A $15 minimum wage would significantly affect wages for low-income workers across Mississippi, potentially lifting some families above poverty thresholds while increasing operating costs for businesses. The bill would also establish state-level overtime standards, which could differ from federal requirements depending on how exemptions are structured.

Potential points of contention

  • Business impact concerns: Small businesses and labor-intensive industries (retail, agriculture, hospitality) argue higher wages increase operational costs, potentially leading to reduced hours, automation, or price increases for consumers
  • Economic competitiveness: Mississippi has among the lowest costs of living and labor in the nation; critics worry a $15 minimum could disadvantage employers competing regionally or nationally
  • Exemption scope: The bill's language on which workers qualify for exemptions and how overtime thresholds are set could significantly affect coverage—broad exemptions would reduce the bill's reach while narrow ones could strain small employers

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

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