Proposed legislation sparks debate, pitting business interests against worker protections amid Florida’s rising cost of living.
FL News Network —A new bill, SB 676, is making waves in the Florida Legislature as it proposes allowing certain workers to be paid less than the state’s minimum wage. This legislation has ignited a heated debate among lawmakers, business owners, and workers alike. The bill is aimed at younger workers and those in the tourism industry.
What is SB 676
Introduced by Sen. Jonathan Martin (R Fort Myers), aims to provide exemptions to Florida’s minimum wage requirements for employees participating in structured work-study, internship, pre-apprenticeship, apprenticeship programs, or other similar work-based learning opportunities. Under this bill, employees can opt out of receiving the minimum wage by checking a box on their application form or providing a written acknowledgment.
What is Florida’s Minimum Wage
As of 2025, Florida’s minimum wage is $13 per hour, with plans to increase it incrementally to $15 per hour by 2026. Voters approved this gradual increase in a 2020 constitutional amendment. Tipped employees must be paid a direct cash wage of at least $10.98 per hour.
In November 2020, Florida voters approved Amendment 2, which mandates a gradual increase of the state’s minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2026. The schedule is as follows:
$10.00 on September 30, 2021
$11.00 on September 30, 2022
$12.00 on September 30, 2023
$13.00 on September 30, 2024
$14.00 on September 30, 2025
$15.00 on September 30, 2026
Benefits for Businesses and Workers
Businesses that support the bill argue that it would help them to reduce labor costs and increase competitiveness. By paying a lower training wage, employers could hire more employees and invest in their training and development.
Workers who opt-in to the lower wage rate could benefit from increased job opportunities and the chance to gain valuable work experience. However, critics argue that this benefit is outweighed by the potential risks of wage exploitation and limited job mobility.
Proponents of SB 676 argue it would help individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities gain valuable work experience and independence. They contend that subminimum wages, in some cases, might be necessary to make employment accessible to individuals who might otherwise be excluded from the workforce due to their disability. The idea is to provide a pathway to employment and some income, even if it is below the standard minimum wage. The advocates argue this will create a net positive for the workers themselves.
Increased Job Opportunities: Supporters argue that the bill will create more job opportunities for unskilled workers by allowing businesses to hire them at a lower wage.
Skill Development: The bill provides a pathway for workers to gain valuable skills and experience through internships and apprenticeships without the financial burden on employers.
Flexibility: Proponents believe that the bill offers flexibility for both employers and employees, allowing workers to choose skill development over immediate higher wages.
Cons:
Opponents argue that SB 676 exploits vulnerable workers and sets a dangerous precedent for lowering minimum wage standards more broadly. They point out that subminimum wages could leave employees unable to meet basic living expenses, even if they also receive government support. Critics also raise concerns about the potential for abuse, arguing that employers might exploit the loophole to pay all employees less than minimum wage. Opponents fear that without strict regulations and oversight, the system would be easily misused to exploit already vulnerable people.
Potential Exploitation: Critics argue that the bill could lead to exploitation, with employers reclassifying entry-level jobs as internships or apprenticeships to avoid paying minimum wage.
Undermining Wage Protections: Opponents worry that the bill undermines voter-approved wage protections and could face legal challenges.
Lack of Protections: There are concerns about the lack of protections against coercion, fraud, or employer intimidation, which could lead to workers being unfairly pressured into opting out of minimum wage requirements.
Business Benefits
Businesses stand to benefit from SB 676 by reducing labor costs, which can be particularly advantageous for small businesses and startups. The bill allows employers to hire unskilled workers at a lower wage, providing them with on-the-job training and experience without the financial strain of paying the full minimum wage.
Worker Benefits
For workers, especially young and unskilled individuals, SB 676 offers an opportunity to gain valuable skills and experience that can enhance their employability in the future. By participating in structured work-based learning programs, workers can build a foundation for their careers without the immediate pressure of earning a higher wage.
Floridian Opinions
The proposed law has elicited mixed reactions from Floridians. Supporters believe that the bill will provide much-needed job opportunities and skill development for young workers. However, opponents argue that it could lead to exploitation and undermine the state’s minimum wage protections. The debate continues as the bill moves through the legislative process, with both sides voicing their concerns and support.
Forward Together
As SB 676 progresses through the Florida Legislature, it remains a contentious issue with strong arguments on both sides. The bill’s potential impact on workers, businesses, and the state’s minimum wage laws will be closely watched by all stakeholders.
