Maine starts 2022 with minimum wage changes, Portland mask mandate

We’re only a few days into 2022, but Maine employers should be aware of several significant changes including increases to state and local minimum wages and a new indoor mask mandate in Portland. Here’s what you need to know to start the year off on the right foot.

Statewide minimum wage

On January 1, Maine’s minimum wage climbed to $12.75 per hour. The minimum salary threshold for exempt employees increased to $735.59 per week ($38,251 per year).

Maine is one of eight states to raise the minimum wage based on cost-of-living increases. The federal minimum wage remains $7.25 per hour.

Portland minimum wage

Portland’s minimum wage is currently $19.50, one of the highest in the country. The city is in the midst of a municipal state of emergency because of COVID-19, which triggered its hazard pay ordinance and the higher minimum wage.

On January 3, the Portland City Council voted to end the municipal state of emergency in 10 days, at which time the requirement to provide the hazard pay will expire. The city attorney hasn’t determined if the extra pay will end on January 13 or 14.

Until we get more clarity, employers with a place of business in Portland should pay employees working at the facility in the city at least $19.50 per hour through January 14. Please note hazard pay is not applicable to employees working remotely.

Portland indoor mask mandate