Massachusetts Statewide Rule
Massachusetts Minimum Wage and Local Wage Authority
Key Facts
- Minimum Wage
- $15.00 statewide
- Tipped Wage
- $6.75 minimum
- Wage Theft
- Treble damages
- Living Wage
- Allowed city contracts
- Authority
- MGL Chapter 151
Summary
Massachusetts sets a statewide minimum wage of $15.00 per hour under MGL Chapter 151, and generally preempts cities from adopting higher local minimum wages.
It is hereby declared to be against public policy for any employer to employ any person in an occupation in this commonwealth at an oppressive and unreasonable wage as defined in section two, and any contract, agreement or understanding for or in relation to such employment shall be null and void.
Full Breakdown
MGL Chapter 151 establishes Massachusetts wage and hour law, including the statewide minimum wage which reached $15.00 per hour on January 1, 2023. The tipped minimum wage is $6.75, with employers required to ensure total compensation reaches the regular minimum. Massachusetts case law and statutory framework treat wage levels as a matter of statewide concern, generally preempting municipalities from setting different rates for private employers. However, cities may impose higher wage floors for their own employees and contractors through living wage ordinances such as those in Boston and Cambridge.
Violations & Penalties
Wage violations carry treble damages, attorney fees, and Attorney General civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation under MGL Chapter 149 Section 27C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Boston raise its minimum wage above $15?
What is the Massachusetts tipped minimum wage?
Sources
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