Effective today, July 24, the Federal Minimum Wage increases to $6.55 hour.  This is the second of three increases provided for by the enactment of the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007.  A third minimum wage increase to $7.25 per hour becomes effective on July 24, 2009.

This increase does not affect most Western states, which have higher state minimum wages.  Employers in Utah and Idaho, however, are affected by the increase and should make sure they comply.  Need to verify your state’s minimum wage?  The Department of Labor has this great chart – just click on your state for current minimum wage information.