AL HB26

Establishes Alabama's first state minimum wage at $10 per hour for hourly employees beginning 60 days after the bill's effective date.

Sets minimum wage for tipped employees at 30 percent of the federal or state minimum wage rate, whichever is greater, provided they receive at least 70 percent of the current minimum wage in gratuities.

Increases the minimum wage every three years beginning January 1, 2020, based on the Consumer Price Index for Alabama as reported by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Authorizes the Secretary of the Alabama Department of Labor to enforce the act, investigate wage violations, inspect payroll records, and issue civil penalties of $500-$1,000 for willful violations.

Allows employees to recover unpaid minimum wages plus an equal amount in damages, plus court costs and attorney's fees, with a three-year statute of limitations for filing suit.