Can Idaho cities raise the minimum wage above $7.25?

No. Idaho Code 44-1502 preempts local minimum wage ordinances. All cities and counties are bound by the state $7.25 floor, and any local higher-wage ordinance is void and unenforceable.

What is the tipped minimum wage in Idaho?

Tipped employees may be paid a cash wage of $3.35 per hour as long as combined tips and cash wages reach the $7.25 minimum. Employers must make up any shortfall to satisfy state law.

Idaho Minimum Wage Preemption Law: Statewide Employment Preemption Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: Idaho Code 44-1502
State Minimum Wage: $7.25 per hour
Tipped Cash Wage: $3.35
Local Higher Wage: Prohibited
Aligned With: Federal floor

Full Breakdown

Idaho Code 44-1502 establishes that no political subdivision of the state shall set a minimum wage that exceeds the state minimum wage. Idaho's state minimum is tied to the federal level at $7.25 per hour, with a separate $3.35 cash wage for tipped employees who earn at least minimum wage with tips. The preemption was enacted to prevent a patchwork of local wages and provide uniform compensation rules for employers operating across Idaho cities. Boise, Moscow, and other localities cannot raise minimum wage by ordinance or initiative. Workers seeking higher wages must negotiate individually or rely on legislative action at the state or federal level. Idaho also preempts local rules on benefits and hours.

Violations & Penalties

Local wage ordinances exceeding state minimum are void. Employers cannot be forced to comply with local wage rules; affected employers may seek declaratory relief.

Idaho Minimum Wage Local Preemption Statewide

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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