Minimum Wage Increases and New Consumer Protection Laws 2025

As of January 1, 2025, minimum wage increases are taking effect in several U.S. states, impacting millions of workers. Missouri's wage will rise to $13.75, with a path to $15 by 2026, while California's wage will increase to $16.50, with some cities offering even higher rates due to local ordinances. In Arizona, the minimum wage will be adjusted to $14.70 to account for cost-of-living changes, and Maine's wage will rise to $14.65. These changes are part of broader state efforts to address wage disparities as the federal minimum remains unchanged since 2009. Additionally, new consumer protection laws such as the 'Ticketing Fairness Act' in Minnesota aim to increase transparency in ticket sales, banning deceptive pricing practices.