HB246, “Increase Minimum Wage” was introduced on February 4, 2025. It was sent to the Labor, Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee and received a due pass recommendation from the Committee on February 14, 2025 (with amendments). The proposed Bill increases minimum wage to $17.00 per hour effective January 1, 2026. The Bill signifies the rate is to increase annually using consumer price index figures and will not be adjusted downward due to a decrease in the CPI. In addition, the types of employers exempted in the prior Act have been removed in the proposed Bill, likely resulting in a much higher number of individuals potentially receiving minimum wage than what has resulted from the current Act. (Please note that the provisions for tipped employees have also been removed in the proposed Bill.)

Southwestern HR Consulting (SWHRC) will continue monitoring HR related bills during this session. Contact SWHRC today at the link above to find out more about our services and our team of experts.

Written by | Magdalena Vigil-Tullar

HR Consultant | MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CLRP

Phone: 505-270-7494 | Email: magdalena@swhrc.com

PO Box 14274 | Albuquerque, NM 87191