NC S347

Proposes a constitutional amendment to set North Carolina's minimum wage at $8.80 per hour, effective six months after enactment.

Establishes automatic annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to the minimum wage each January 1st based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U), calculated by the North Carolina Department of Labor.

Provides private right of action for employees to sue for back wages plus liquidated damages, attorney's fees, and costs; allows willful violators to be fined $1,000 per violation with a 4-5 year statute of limitations.

Protects tipped employees by allowing employers to credit tips toward the minimum wage up to the federal Fair Labor Standards Act tip credit amount from 2003.

Requires voter approval at the November 8, 2016 general election; if approved, the amendment becomes effective December 1, 2016, and conforming statutory changes raise the state minimum wage from $6.15 to $8.80 per hour.