What is the minimum wage in Louisiana?
Louisiana has NO state minimum wage law. Workers covered by the federal FLSA receive $7.25/hour.
1. No State Minimum Wage
The Louisiana Legislature has never enacted a state minimum wage statute. Federal FLSA covers most workers (employers with $500K+ gross sales OR engaged in interstate commerce — virtually all).
2. Federal Rate
3. Tipped Workers
Federal rules: $2.13/hour cash wage + tips reaching $7.25 (29 U.S.C. § 203(m)).
4. Local Preemption — La. R.S. 23:642
Louisiana Revised Statute 23:642 prohibits any local government from establishing minimum wages, paid leave, or vacation requirements above federal/state law. New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, etc. cannot set local minimums for private employers.
5. Historical Background
6. Overtime
Federal FLSA: 1.5x after 40 hours/week. No state overtime law. No daily overtime.
7. Federal Exemptions
Standard FLSA exemptions: executive, administrative, professional ($684/week salary), outside sales, agricultural (small farm), seasonal recreation.
8. Wage Payment Law (La. R.S. 23:631-642)
Louisiana has wage payment requirements:
9. Right-to-Work
Louisiana is a right-to-work state (La. R.S. 23:983).
10. Enforcement
11. Pending Reform
Multiple bills to enact a Louisiana minimum wage have been introduced over the years; none has passed.
This is legal information, not legal advice.
- Your final wages weren't paid within 15 days — 90-day penalty wages available
- Your employer is FLSA-covered but pays below $7.25
- You're misclassified as an independent contractor
- La. R.S. 23:642
- La. R.S. 23:631
- La. R.S. 23:632
- La. R.S. 23:983
- 29 U.S.C. § 206
- 29 U.S.C. § 207
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.