Does Corpus Christi, TX have its own minimum wage preemption ordinance?

No. Corpus Christi, TX does not appear to have a local minimum wage preemption ordinance, Texas state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from Texas Local Government Code.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, TX Employment Preemption: Minimum Wage Preemption (2026)

Few Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Federal floor: 7.25 dollars per hour
Tipped cash wage: 2.13 dollars per hour
Local cap: Tex. Loc. Govt. 229.001
Public works: Tex. Gov. Code Ch. 2258

Summary

Corpus Christi cannot set a local minimum wage above 7.25 dollars per hour because Texas Local Government Code Chapter 229 preempts city wage ordinances for private employers, leaving the federal FLSA rate in force.

Sec. 62.051. MINIMUM WAGE. Except as provided by Section 62.057, an employer shall pay to each employee the federal minimum wage under Section 6, Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. Section 206). ... Sec. 62.0515. APPLICATION OF MINIMUM WAGE TO CERTAIN GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES; CERTAIN AGREEMENTS WITH GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES. (a) Except as otherwise provided by this section, the minimum wage provided by this chapter supersedes a wage established in an ordinance, order, or charter provision governing wages in private employment, other than wages under a public contract.

Source: Texas Local Government CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Texas Local Government Code Section 229.001 prohibits a municipality from adopting a minimum wage that exceeds the federal Fair Labor Standards Act rate of 7.25 dollars per hour for private employers. Corpus Christi has not adopted a local minimum wage, and any attempt would be void. The city may set wage standards in its own contracts, including living wage rules for service contractors and prevailing wage on certain public works under Texas Government Code Chapter 2258. Tipped workers may receive 2.13 dollars per hour cash wage if tips bring total pay above 7.25. Wage theft is enforced by the Texas Workforce Commission and U.S. DOL.

Violations & Fines

Paying below the federal minimum, misclassifying workers as independent contractors, or stealing tips can lead to back pay, liquidated damages, and U.S. Department of Labor enforcement actions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Corpus Christi raise the minimum wage above 7.25?

No. Texas Local Government Code Section 229.001 preempts cities from setting a higher private sector minimum wage. The federal FLSA rate of 7.25 dollars per hour applies.

Are there exceptions for city contractors?

Yes. The city may impose wage requirements on its own contractors and on prevailing wages for public works under state law. Those rules do not extend to private employers generally.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Corpus Christi

Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback RulesSome Restrictions Parking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingLight Restrictions Paid Leave PreemptionFew Restrictions Parking Rules: Driveway RulesSome Restrictions Fence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSignificant Restrictions Fire Regulations: Propane StorageSome Restrictions

All Corpus Christi rules

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