A new bill in Florida proposes that workers in internship or pre-apprenticeship programs could receive less than the state minimum wage, currently set at $14 per hour. The legislation, known as HB 221, passed through its first committee on January 28, 2024, sparking significant debate among lawmakers and constituents.
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Ryan Chamberlin, a Republican from Belleview, argues that it would create more opportunities for young people to gain work experience and learn valuable trades. “This is not cutting the minimum wage in Florida,” Chamberlin stated during discussions with the House Industries and Professional Activities Subcommittee. “It opens up unique opportunities that don’t exist.”
Despite Chamberlin’s assertions, many Democrats expressed strong opposition to the bill. They highlighted the rising cost of living, noting that even those earning minimum wage struggle to afford basic necessities such as rent and groceries. Rep. Angie Nixon, a Democrat from Jacksonville, characterized the bill as a measure that would “push people into poverty,” rather than genuinely create opportunities.
The committee vote on HB 221 passed with a 10-6 majority, largely along party lines. Notably, Rep. Susan Valdes, a Republican from Tampa who previously identified as a Democrat, sided with the opposition.
In response to concerns about the bill’s implications, the committee made amendments aimed at limiting how long a company could employ individuals under this program. The proposal stipulates a maximum of 252 days for adult workers and 126 days for those under 18 years old. Additionally, parental consent would be required for minors participating in such programs.
Chamberlin emphasized that the bill would not override the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. However, his arguments did not sway Democrats or union representatives who voiced concerns about the bill’s constitutionality. They pointed to Florida’s governing charter, which mandates a minimum wage increase approved by voters in 2020. This measure, which was passed with 61% of the vote, aims to raise the minimum wage by $1 each year until it reaches $15 per hour on October 1, 2024.
Chamberlin contended that citizens have the right to waive certain constitutional protections, claiming the bill would withstand judicial scrutiny. Nevertheless, Rep. Anna Eskamani, a Democrat from Orlando, expressed apprehensions that the bill could undermine the minimum wage in the courts.
Chamberlin reassured that young workers would still have options available to them. “If someone doesn’t want a training-based position, they shouldn’t take it,” he remarked. “There’s plenty of jobs out there that will pay more.”
The legislative process for HB 221 is ongoing, with two more committee hearings scheduled in the House. The corresponding Senate bill, SB 1412, has yet to be reviewed in that chamber, leaving the future of this controversial proposal uncertain.
Reporting for the USA TODAY Network-Florida Capital Bureau, Gray Rohrer can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on X: @GrayRohrer.
