Governor McKee Signs Legislation Raising Rhode Island Minimum Wage

Published on Monday, August 04, 2025

PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, Governor McKee signed legislation (2025-H 5029A, 2025-S 0125A) that increases Rhode Island’s minimum wage from $15 to $17 over a two-year period. 

Taking effect Jan. 1, 2026, the minimum wage will increase to $16, and on Jan. 1, 2027, $17. An estimated 50,000 Rhode Islanders are currently earning minimum wage.

“Hard work should be met with fair pay. By raising minimum wage over the next two years, we are sending a clear message that our commitment to hard-working Rhode Islanders has never been stronger,” said Governor Dan McKee. “I want to thank the bill sponsors, advocates, and lawmakers who made it a priority to fight for the working class."

“Over the past few years we have increased our minimum wage to help offset the rising cost of living, helping our working families support themselves and keeping us competitive with our neighboring states. But it’s important for us to keep that progress going,” said Representative David A. Bennett (D-Dist. 20, Warwick, Cranston). “This legislation keeps our minimum wage rising in a predictable, stable way that allows Rhode Island’s businesses to comfortably plan for the coming increases, while keeping our commitment to livable wages for our constituents.”

“Thousands of workers across Rhode Island earn less than a livable wage,” said Senator John Burke (D-Dist. 9, West Warwick), who chairs the Senate Committee on Labor and Gaming. “Raising the minimum wage regularly, as the General Assembly has been doing, ensures that these workers can meet their basic food, housing and health care needs. It also tends to stimulate the economy by increasing their purchasing power.”

“Increasing the minimum wage ensures tens of thousands of working Rhode Islanders will earn enough money from their labor to not only get by, but enjoy all that our state has to offer,” said Patrick Crowley, President of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO. “Increasing the minimum wage also benefits the entire Rhode Island economy because workers spend their wages in the daily economy, increasing demand, which leads to job growth. A strong economy starts with a well-compensated workforce.”

In 2021, Governor McKee signed legislation to raise the minimum wage from $11.50 to $15 over four years.