Oregon Minimum Wage

In the U.S. the minimum age rates vary from state to state, as do many labor laws. Though they vary, each state must follow national guidelines so that the workers’ rights are protected in a manner according to the Federal government.

Oregon is a state that offers strong labor benefits for the workers. When it comes to minimum wage workers, it likewise protects them. The government wants to protect workers’ rights by ensuring that no matter what job they have, workers’ will receive adequate compensation.

The Oregon basic minimum rate per hour in Oregon is $7.50 for a 40 hour work week. There is an additional premium required for a worker that works more than 10 hours a day in the following positions: nonfarm canneries, driers, packing plants, in mills, factories or manufacturing centers such as a sawmill, planning mills, shingle mill or logging camp.

On January 1, 2004, it was determined that the minimum wage rate should be adjusted annually according to inflation figures. In order to determine the amount of the adjustment, the government would use the U.S. City Average Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers for All Items. As such, the hourly wage amount would be adjusted to the nearest five-cent increase.

In a 1998 study of Oregon workers’, it was found that having minimum wage increases can increase the effects of a parent that leaves welfare for the workforce. The study suggests that the average wage for Oregon parents increased by about 5 percent after they returned to the workforce from welfare compared to their wages pre-welfare. Additionally, it was found that it was easier for welfare recipients to find work.

Minimum wage varies from state to state, but I found that the Oregon minimum wage amount was above average compared to the other states. As such, there have been many studies that address the effectiveness of a minimum wage program. Those studies have proven that raising the minimum wage has a positive effect on the overall economy.

The Oregon Complete Labor Law poster provides allof the most current Oregon state laws as well as the federal laws necessary for every workplace.