MS SB2586

Establishes Mississippi state minimum wage of $12.00 per hour beginning January 1, 2023, increasing to $15.00 per hour beginning January 1, 2025.

Requires minimum wage to increase automatically whenever federal minimum wage increases, set at federal rate plus one-half of one percent (0.5%).

Provides reduced minimum wage of 85% of state minimum for learners, beginners, and workers under 18 years old for first 200 hours of employment.

Exempts employers with fewer than 5 employees, federal Fair Labor Standards Act-covered employers, agricultural workers, and certain other categories from minimum wage requirements.

Establishes criminal penalties ranging from fines of $100-$10,000 and up to one year imprisonment for willful violations, with civil cause of action allowing employees to recover unpaid wages plus attorney's fees.

Allows municipalities and counties to mandate wages higher than the state minimum wage, but prohibits wages lower than the state rate.