Alabama Employment Laws

Alabama has no state minimum wage — the federal $7.25/hr applies. Alabama enacted a law preempting local governments from setting their own minimum wages after Birmingham passed a $10.10/hr ordinance in 2016.

Alabama's first wage equity law (2019 — Alabama was the 49th state to enact one). Prohibits wage discrimination based on sex OR race for substantially similar work. Prohibits employers from refusing to interview or hire applicants who decline to provide wage history. Includes anti-retaliation provisions.

Alabama elevated right-to-work to constitutional status by voter referendum in 2016. No worker can be required to join a union or pay dues as a condition of employment. This makes it nearly impossible to repeal through ordinary legislation.

The Alabama Age Discrimination in Employment Act protects workers age 40+ from employment discrimination based on age. Applies to employers with 20+ employees. Includes anti-retaliation provisions.

It is unlawful to terminate an employee solely because they filed a workers' compensation claim. The employee can sue for retaliatory discharge.