Effective January 1, 2012, just in time for the new year, Florida's minimum wage will increase again up to $7.67 per hour.  Florida's current minimum wage, which has been in effect since June 1, 2011, is $7.31 per hour.

For all employees who receive tips, minimum wage will also increase.  The hourly wage for tipped employees will increase to $4.65 per hour up from $4.23, which is equal to the minimum wage ($7.67), less the tip credit ($3.02).

These increases are the result of a 2004 amendment to Florida's constitution which created Florida's minimum wage.  The 2012 increase is based on the percentage change of the federal Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers in the south region for the twelve-month period to September 1, 2011.

Since federal law requires employers to pay employees the higher of the federal or state minimum wages, Florida's minimum wage will prevail over federal minimum wage.

Florida employers need to be mindful of these changes and to remember to replace their minimum wage posters.

For further information see Florida's Department of Economic Opportunity's website.