What is the purpose of living wage laws?

The purpose of living wage laws is to require employers to pay more than the federal minimum wage to ensure that workers can meet their basic living expenses, such as housing, food, and healthcare. Unlike standard minimum wage laws, which set a baseline wage that employers must pay, living wage laws take into account the cost of living in a particular area and are designed to provide a wage that reflects what is necessary for workers to maintain a decent standard of living.

Living wage laws are often enacted at local or state levels and can vary significantly from place to place, reflecting the local economic conditions. These laws aim to help reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for low-income workers by ensuring they are compensated fairly for their labor. By mandating that employers pay above the federal minimum wage, these laws seek to create a more equitable workforce and address disparities in pay and living standards.