Rep. Ryan Chamberlin (R-Belleview) has filed legislation in the House to reform the state's minimum wage for workers, currently at $14 per hour, with provisions for different options for compensation.
According to the bill, HB 221, would allow an employee to voluntarily opt out of the minimum wage requirement if they are employed in "an internship, pre-apprenticeship, or on-the-job workforce training."
Specifically, the program waiver is only valid for nine months or two full-time semesters, each consisting of at least 15 credit hours. Notably, the bill prohibits an employer from coercing a worker to accept the waiver, and anyone under 18 must have the waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
“This bill will help give employers and their employees more freedom, create more jobs, reduce our cost of living, and support small businesses across Florida,” Chamberlin said in a statement. “The minimum wage in Florida, as currently codified in our state constitution, has become a weight on Florida’s economy and a hindrance to workers seeking to improve their personal finances.”
Following a voter referendum in 2020, Florida's minimum wage will rise to $15 on September 30, 2026. The bill does require employers to pay their employees the federal minimum wage, currently set at $7.25 per hour.
“Wage controls are always enacted with good intentions, but always lead to a decrease in opportunities. We must seek alternative options like career development and continued education to ensure workers are receiving the skills needed to compete in today’s economy," Chamberlin continued. "This legislation allows the option for an employer to offer on-the-job training positions to completely inexperienced individuals in exchange for the value in learning a skill or trade that could enhance their long-term, income-earning future.”
This is Rep. Chamberlin's second attempt in as many years to reform the state's minimum wage requirements. HB 541/SB 676 advanced in both chambers during the 2025 legislative session, but failed to receive a floor vote.
HB 221 has not received a Senate companion. If passed, the bill would take effect on July 1, 2026.
The Florida Legislative Session begins on Jan 13.
