Are there any exceptions to minimum wage laws?

Yes, there are a few exceptions to Mississippi’s minimum wage laws. First, employers can pay a student learner or apprentice a wage that is lower than the state’s minimum wage, as long as the employer obtains a permit from the Mississippi Department of Employment Security. These permits are valid for up to six months, and employers must pay at least 85% of the state’s minimum wage for the first two months, and at least 90% of the state’s minimum wage for the last four months of the permit. Second, employers are allowed to pay employees with disabilities a wage that is lower than the state’s minimum wage, as long as the employee’s wage is commensurate with their productivity. However, employers must obtain the approval of the Mississippi Department of Employment Security before they are allowed to do this. Third, employers are allowed to pay tipped employees an hourly wage that is lower than the state’s minimum wage, as long as their tips make up the difference between the two. Mississippi’s minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13 per hour. Finally, employers are allowed to pay employees under the age of 18 a wage that is lower than the state’s minimum wage as long as the employee is not engaged in hazardous work. Mississippi’s minimum wage for employees under the age of 18 is $7.25 per hour. These are the most common exceptions to Mississippi’s minimum wage laws. However, it’s important to remember that employers must comply with all applicable federal and state labor laws. Failure to do so can result in serious penalties.

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