HB71 Summary

• Establishes Alabama's first state minimum wage equal to the federal minimum wage, adjusted annually for Consumer Price Index increases for Alabama as reported by the U.S. Department of Labor.

• Requires the Director of Finance to notify the Alabama Department of Labor in writing between October 1 and October 15 each year of the cost-of-living adjustment percentage to be applied the following calendar year.

• Mandates employers pay wages at no less than the state minimum wage and post a summary of wage requirements in a conspicuous location at the workplace.

• Employers violating minimum wage requirements are liable to employees for unpaid wages plus interest, court costs, and reasonable attorney's fees, with a three-year statute of limitations for legal action.

• Requires the Alabama Department of Labor to post any minimum wage changes on its website and protects employees' right to collectively bargain for wages exceeding the minimum wage.