Maryland Debates $25 Minimum Wage Legislation

Lawmakers hear arguments from workers and businesses on a bill that would phase in a $25 state minimum wage

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:32am

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Minimum wage workers in Maryland are advocating for a $25 per hour minimum wage through new legislation that would phase in the increase over four years and enshrine it in the state constitution. The bill would also tie future increases to inflation. However, business owners and the Maryland Chamber of Commerce oppose the measure, arguing it would lead to significant job losses and revenue declines.

Why it matters

This debate highlights the ongoing tension between calls for a living wage and concerns from businesses about the economic impacts of sharply raising the minimum wage. The outcome could have major implications for workers' standard of living and the state's overall economic health.

The details

The proposed legislation would gradually increase Maryland's minimum wage from the current $15 per hour to $25 per hour by 2031. It would also require that the minimum wage be tied to inflation in subsequent years. Supporters argue a $25 minimum is necessary for workers to afford basic living expenses in the state, while opponents warn it could cost up to 84,000 jobs and $15 billion in revenue.

  • The legislation proposes a four-year phase-in period, with the $25 minimum wage taking effect by January 2027.
  • If passed, the measure would go to voters as a referendum question on the November 2026 ballot.

The players

Nikki MG Cole

A coordinator with the Living Wage Coalition, which is advocating for the $25 minimum wage legislation.

Timothy Linaberry

A tipped worker who testified in favor of the legislation.

Nykeara

A tipped worker who sometimes has to work 100 hours per week to make ends meet.

Jay Streinmetz

A business owner who opposes the legislation, citing increased regulations and wage rates driving competitors out of the state.

Tony Parsons

A restaurant managing partner who argues the legislation would drive up prices and negatively impact customer service.

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What they’re saying

“We have a strong coalition of labor allies and community partners. We're advocating for a living wage for everyone. It's not just about tipped workers. It's really hard to get by in Maryland on $15 an hour. So, a living wage calculator shows that a single person without kids needs at least $26.17 to get by.”

— Nikki MG Cole, Coordinator, Living Wage Coalition (wbal.com)

“What this does for me is it provides a more stable sense of income in a dynamic and ever-uncertain world.”

— Timothy Linaberry, Tipped Worker (wbal.com)

“Like groceries, rent, car payment, car insurance, being able to pay those things. You know where this money is going to come from.”

— Nykeara, Tipped Worker (wbal.com)

“All my competitors had left the state because of regulations and the threats of constantly increasing the wage rates.”

— Jay Streinmetz, Business Owner (wbal.com)

“We, as an American culture, expect service when we go out to a restaurant. So, you remove people from the business and staff, it affects the overall experience, and it's going to drive prices up.”

— Tony Parsons, Restaurant Managing Partner (wbal.com)

What’s next

If the legislation passes, it would go to voters as a referendum question on the November 2026 ballot. If approved by voters, the $25 minimum wage would be phased in starting in January 2027.

The takeaway

This debate over a $25 minimum wage in Maryland highlights the ongoing tension between workers' calls for a living wage and businesses' concerns about the economic impacts. The outcome could have significant implications for the state's workers and overall economy.