MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | New Minnesota Nursing Home Minimum Wages Will Take Effect September 10

ST. PAUL, MN (August 21, 2026) New occupation-based minimum wages for Minnesota nursing home employees will take effect September 10 after federal officials approved the state funding mechanism required to implement the standards.

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry announced that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approved the related State Plan Amendment on August 11. State rules provide for the wage standards to begin 30 days after federal approval.

Beginning September 10, the minimum hourly rates will be:

• $19 for general nursing home workers
• $22.50 for certified nursing assistants
• $23.50 for trained medication aides
• $27 for licensed practical nurses

The wage standards apply specifically to covered nursing home employment and are separate from Minnesota’s general minimum wage.

The Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board adopted the rules as part of an effort to improve compensation and stabilize staffing in long-term-care facilities. The implementation date had remained uncertain while Minnesota waited for federal approval of the Medicaid-related rate changes intended to support the higher wages.

A second wage increase is scheduled for January 1, 2027, subject to the required federal approval. Under the published schedule, minimum rates would rise to $20.50 for general nursing home workers, $24 for certified nursing assistants, $25 for trained medication aides and $28.50 for licensed practical nurses.

Minnesota nursing home workers who work on any of 11 designated state holidays must also receive at least time-and-a-half pay under separate rules that took effect January 1, 2025.

Employers should review the occupation definitions, posting requirements and compliance guidance before September 10. Workers who believe they are not receiving the required wage may contact the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry’s Labor Standards Division at 651-284-5075 or 800-342-5354.

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