Are there any exceptions to minimum wage laws?
In Massachusetts, employers must pay their employees at least the minimum wage rate of $12.75 per hour as of 2021. However, there are some exceptions to this law. For example, employers may pay lower rates for certain occupations such as seasonal farm workers, student learners, and certain full-time student employees. There are also specific rules that allow for “tip credit” arrangements, which allow employers to pay employees a lower hourly rate as long as the employees’ tips, combined with their wages, equal at least the minimum wage. Interns may be exempt from receiving the minimum wage if they are working for academic or vocational credit and are not entitled to wages. Additionally, child performers under 18 may be paid less than the minimum wage. While these exceptions may provide employers with relief from paying the minimum wage, employers should be aware that they are still obligated to comply with all other wage and hour laws such as overtime pay requirements. Failing to do so can result in a complaint being filed against the employer or a penalty being assessed. Lastly, employers should also be sure to review the laws regularly and update their processes and policies to stay in compliance with the applicable laws.
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