New JerseyEmployers could pay some 14- to 16-year-old trainees less
If enacted, New Jersey employers could pay 14- to 16-year-olds in qualifying training programs less for their first 120 hours in jobs where they lack related experience.
What it does
Employers could pay 14- to 16-year-olds in qualifying training programs as little as two-thirds of the regular minimum wage, down from 90%, for their first 120 hours in a job where they lack related experience.
Argument forEmployers might offer more qualifying training to inexperienced teens because they could pay a lower wage during the first 120 hours.
Argument againstEligible teens could earn less during their first 120 work hours because the lowest permitted training wage would fall from 90% to two-thirds of the regular minimum wage.
More detail
Employers could pay eligible trainees as little as two-thirds of the regular minimum wage, rather than 90%. This applies to workers ages 14 through 16 who have no similar or related experience in that kind of job. Trainees must be in an established training program that meets state standards. Other trainees would still have a 90% wage floor. The change would take effect immediately if enacted. Employers could use the lower rate only during the first 120 work hours after hiring.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Oct 1Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Labor CommitteeIntroduced
Economy & Jobs