Texas Labor Code 62.0515 preempts cities from setting a minimum wage above the federal $7.25 per hour. Lubbock cannot adopt a local wage floor for private employers, though tipped and youth wages follow separate federal rules.
Texas joins a majority of states preempting local minimum wage authority. Lubbock private-sector employers must follow federal Fair Labor Standards Act minimums of $7.25 per hour, $2.13 for tipped workers receiving sufficient tips, and limited youth training rates. Public-sector employers and city contractors can adopt higher voluntary wages, and Lubbock has explored prevailing wage standards for contracts. Federal exemptions for agricultural, executive, and outside sales workers still apply. Texas does not recognize any city, county, or special district authority to mandate higher private-sector wages.
Federal Department of Labor enforces minimum wage compliance. Violations trigger back-wage liability, liquidated damages doubling unpaid wages, and civil penalties up to $2,374 per repeat violation under FLSA.
See how Lubbock's minimum wage preemption rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.