Florida House Advances Bill for Lower Minimum Wage for Interns and Apprentices

In a controversial move, a Florida House panel has advanced a bill that would allow employers to pay interns and apprentices less than the state's minimum wage. The proposed legislation, which has stirred significant debate, aims to provide businesses with greater flexibility in hiring young workers by setting a lower wage threshold for these positions.

The bill comes amidst ongoing discussions about the state's minimum wage, which is set to rise to $13 per hour. Critics argue that the move undermines the constitutional amendment approved by Florida voters, designed to incrementally increase the minimum wage to $15 by 2026. Supporters, however, believe it will encourage more companies to offer training and entry-level opportunities.

The proposal has been met with opposition from labor groups and some lawmakers who fear it may exploit young workers. The bill's advancement to the full House for further deliberation marks a pivotal moment in Florida's labor policy, with potential implications for the state's workforce development and economic landscape.

• Florida
• House Panel
• minimum wage