B.C.’s minimum wage is now permanently tied to inflation thanks to a new law tabled by Labour Minister Harry Bains. The provincial minimum wage most recently rose 65 cents to $17.40 on June 1,2024.  This raise represents a 3.9% increase, consistent with the average inflation in BC in 2023. This figure was determined through consultation with the Fair Wages Commission, an independent body that advises the labour ministry through consultation with businesses, unions and workers. Deflation would not result in a decrease in the minimum wage, in this case the minimum wage would remain the same.

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Labour Minister Harry Bains asserted that this decision would enshrine into law the government’s commitment to preventing our provinces lowest paid workers from falling behind, providing certainty for both workers and employers. Indeed, this decision will positively impact the approximately 130,000 B.C. workers earning minimum wage. The new law will also see the B.C. minimum wage rising from one of the lowest in the country to the highest.

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While the minimum wage increase went into effect of June 1, BC agricultural crop workers will see their wage increase on December 31st. This is to prevent wage adjustments in the middle of harvest season.

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