Nebraska

Discussion

Nebraska: Updates to Minimum Wage, Youth Wage and Training Wage

Nebraska has enacted LB 258, amending the Nebraska Wage and Hour Act to modify future minimum wage increases and establish new wage rules for teen workers. Beginning mid‑July 2026, the state minimum wage will increase annually at a fixed rate of 1.75% each January 1, replacing prior cost‑of‑living adjustments. The law also creates two new wage categories for younger workers: (1) youth minimum wage for minor employees aged 14-15 ($13.50 per hour beginning July 2026, with scheduled increases of 1.5% every five years starting January 1, 2030); and (2) training wage for minor employees aged 16-20 ($13.50 per hour effective July 16, 2026, followed by 1.5% annual increases each January 1). Both the youth minimum wage and the training wage may be paid only to non‑emancipated minors.

 

Nebraska: Workplace Safety Committee Mandate for Private Employers is Repealed

Nebraska’s LB 397 eliminates the state requirement that private employers maintain workplace safety committees and ends the state’s workplace safety consultation program, which was previously administered through the Nebraska Department of Labor. Because Nebraska does not operate a state-level OSHA plan for private employers, enforcement for private-sector workplace safety will continue to fall under federal OSHA. Going forward, the workplace safety committee requirement applies only to public employers subject to the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act, and those committees must maintain a written injury prevention program.

 

---

Disclaimer: This document is designed to provide general information and guidance concerning employment-related issues. It is presented with the understanding that ManagEase is not engaged in rendering any legal opinions. If a legal opinion is needed, please contact the services of your own legal adviser. © 2026 ManagEase