When the clock struck midnight ushering in 2007, some new laws took effect, including raising the minimum wage from $6.75 to $7.15 per hour.
Senator John Sabini was instrumental in getting the increase on the State's agenda in 2004 when the level was $5.15. During that year, the legislature passed and overrode former Governor George Pataki's veto to pass a plan that would increase the minimum wage three times starting in 2005. In 2005, it increased to $6.00 and last year it increased to $6.75.
Workers in industries where they receive tips, including food service workers, will also see their minimum hourly wage increase from $4.35 to $4.60.
Employers and employees looking for more details about the State’s wage law or want to report a violation can call the New York State Department of Labor (DOL) at 212-352-6700 or visit www.labor.state.ny.us.
Other law changes for 2007:
• Timothy's Law, which the legislature passed in December of 2006, The new law requires insurance companies to cover 30 days of inpatient mental illness treatment and 20 days of outpatient treatment. It also requires coverage for biologically-based mental illnesses.
