New York State Raises Minimum Wage and Revises Exemption Criteria

The minimum wage for employees in New York City, Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties sees increase to $16 per hour effective January 1, 2024, while in other regions of the State, it will rise to $15.

The increase follows a Notice of Adoption released in the New York State Register by the New York State Department of Labor in December 2023 finalizing upward revisions in the minimum wage and minimum salary requirements for exemptions.

The minimum salary for exemption as an executive or administrative employee will escalate to $1,200 per week ($62,400 annually) in New York City, Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties, and to $1,124.20 per week ($58,458.40 annually) elsewhere in the State. It’s important to note that New York does not impose salary basis or minimum salary requirements for exempt professionals. 

Additionally, various related thresholds such as allowances for meals, lodging, utilities, tip credits, and uniform maintenance pay will undergo corresponding increases in 2024. A complete draft of the regulatory text showcasing all NYS wage increases is available for review.

These changes will be incorporated into 12 NYCRR Parts 141 (Building Service Industry), 142 (Miscellaneous Industries), 143 (Certain Nonprofit Making Institutions), and 146 (Hospitality Industry).