Connecticut House Bill HB07084

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/17
• Refer: 2/16/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Employee Wages.

Impact

If passed, HB 07084 will significantly affect state regulations concerning employee compensation. By amending Section 31-60 of the general statutes, the bill aims to make it unlawful for employers to pay below the minimum fair wage or the entitled overtime wage. This shift is expected to raise the minimum earnings for many workers, particularly those in industries that previously relied heavily on lower wage allowances such as gratuities and training exemptions. The legislation seeks to provide greater financial stability for workers and ensure compliance with a fair market wage.

Summary

House Bill 07084 is designed to amend existing laws concerning employee wages in the state. The primary aim of the bill is to eliminate exceptions to the minimum fair wage, specifically targeting the training wage and tip credit provisions. This legislation proposes that all employers must adhere to a standardized minimum wage that is not less than the established state minimum, ensuring fair compensation for all employees across various sectors. It reflects a growing trend towards protecting worker rights and securing consistent pay standards in the face of increasing economic disparities.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 07084 highlight notable points of contention between business interests and labor advocates. Proponents of the bill argue that eliminating wage exceptions is essential for enhancing the financial security of employees, thereby supporting the local economy as these workers are likely to spend more. Conversely, some business owners express concerns that raising the minimum wage mandated by the bill may lead to increased operational costs, potentially resulting in layoffs or reduced hiring practices. The debate underscores the challenge of balancing fair compensation while maintaining a competitive business environment.