ANNAPOLIS, Md. (7News) — A statewide effort to raise Maryland’s minimum wage to $25 an hour is gaining new traction—setting up what could become one of the most significant wage debates in state history. The proposal, led by the national advocacy group One Fair Wage, would amend Maryland’s constitution and eliminate exceptions for tipped and youth workers, making it the highest statewide minimum wage in the nation.
Volunteers fanned out across the state this week, launching a signature drive aimed at placing the wage hike on the 2026 ballot. If the group gathers enough signatures, lawmakers would then choose to either put the question before voters or pass the increase themselves.
Supporters argue that Maryland’s current $15 state minimum wage no longer matches the cost of living—especially for families facing rising prices for housing, food, transportation, and childcare…