Minnesota’s minimum wage standards for nursing home workers in effect Sept. 10

Minimum wage standards for nursing home workers across Minnesota take effect Sept. 10, 2026, following federal approval of the State Plan Amendment by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on Aug. 11, 2026.

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) and the Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board (NHWSB) conducted a news conference this morning to outline the new wage requirements and discuss the impact on nursing home workers statewide.

"This first‑of‑its‑kind board is helping Minnesota confront longstanding staffing shortages and low pay in nursing home care. The wage increases going into effect today will help nursing home workers strengthen their pay and will support worker retention across the industry, ensuring residents across Minnesota continue to receive the quality care they deserve," said Kate Perushek, DLI commissioner and member of the NHWSB.

"We began this work years ago because nursing home workers were among the lowest-paid in the health care industry. Under the new wage standards, about 76% of certified nursing assistants will get a raise. The average food service worker will see a $1.51 increase today and another $1.50 on Jan. 1, 2027," said Jamie Gulley, president of SEIU Healthcare and chair of the NHWSB.

"The board’s work began with research, learning and listening to employers and workers in the nursing home industry about their needs and challenges. Today we celebrate the results:  more workers will see their wages increase, making it easier to buy groceries and put gas in the car," said Leah Solo, director of the NHWSB.

As of Sept. 10, 2026, the minimum wages for nursing home workers are:

• nursing home worker (general):  $19.00 an hour;

• certified nursing assistant:  $22.50 an hour;

• trained medication aide:  $23.50 an hour; and

• licensed practical nurse:  $27.00 an hour.

Nursing home workers will also receive a $1.50 increase that will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.

These wage standards were adopted by the Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board as required by Minnesota law, which was passed to establish statewide minimum compensation levels for nursing home workers under Gov. Tim Walz's leadership during the historic 2023 legislative session (see Article 3 of 2023 Minnesota Session Laws Chapter 53). The minimum wage standards are paid for through nursing home reimbursement rates.

More information, including details about the minimum wage standards and holiday pay rules, is available on the NHWSB page.