NC H289

Increases North Carolina's minimum wage in phases from $8.80 per hour (effective January 1, 2018) to $15.00 per hour (effective January 1, 2022).

Establishes intermediate wage rates of $10.35 per hour (2019) and $12.00 per hour (2020), with each rate or the federal minimum wage, whichever is higher.

Beginning September 30, 2022, requires the Commissioner of Labor to automatically adjust the minimum wage annually based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, with adjustments taking effect each January 1.

Maintains existing provisions allowing the Commissioner to set subminimum wages for full-time students, apprentices, persons with disabilities, economically disadvantaged workers, and seasonal employees.

Preserves existing tip credit rules allowing employers to count tips toward minimum wage requirements up to federal limits, with 15% maximum tip pooling deductions.