(NEXSTAR) — Despite attempts in Congress this year, the federal minimum wage will remain unchanged in 2025. In nearly two dozen states, however, that rate is set to climb in 2026.
Since 2009, the federal minimum wage has been $7.25 an hour. A bill introduced by Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) would have increased that rate to $10.59 an hour on January 1, 2026, while another by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) called for a federal minimum wage of $15 an hour. Both were referred to committees, where they remain as of early December.
In 11 states and the District of Columbia, the minimum wage has already been elevated to at least $15 an hour. Next year, seven more states will see their minimum hourly wage reach that threshold.
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Across 27 states, the minimum wage will not change in 2026.
Which states are raising their minimum wage?
Twenty-two states are expected to raise their minimum wage at some point next year…