S.B. No. 146 - State Minimum Wage Increase

• Establishes a phased increase in Ohio's minimum wage from $12.00 per hour (January 1, 2024) to $15.00 per hour (January 1, 2027)

• Beginning September 30, 2027, and annually thereafter, the director of commerce shall adjust the $15.00 minimum wage rate in accordance with Section 34a of Article II, Ohio Constitution

• Prohibits political subdivisions from establishing minimum wage rates different from the state-required rate

• Defines employees using federal Fair Labor Standards Act definitions and provides exemptions for volunteers, family members in family-owned businesses, casual workers, and certain motor carriers

• Requires employers to maintain employee records for three years, provide contact information at hire, and supply wage records to employees upon request within 30 business days; establishes enforcement through state investigation and private right of action with damages of two times back wages