Minimum wage

State mandated programs have contributed to an increased financial burden within our budget, consuming 31.96% of Citrus County’s General Fund budget (52.61% of the General Fund property tax levy). Increases in retirement rates, set by the state legislature, are increasing the County’s retirement contributions. The contribution rate for Special Risk and DROP increased 1.28% and 1.20%, respectively, while Regular Employees increased .66%. Labor represents about 70% of General Fund expenses.

Florida voters approved Amendment 2, in November 2020, which amends Florida’s cons􏰀tu􏰀on to gradually increase the State’s minimum wage to $15.00 an hour by the year 2026. As of January 1, 2021, the minimum wage increased $.09 to $8.65 per hour as scheduled. On September 30, 2021, the minimum wage will rise to $10.00 per hour ($1.35 per hour increase). Every September 30 following, the minimum wage will increase $1.00 per hour through 2026, according to the following schedule:

$11.00 on September 30, 2022 $12.00 on September 30, 2023 $13.00 on September 30, 2024 $14.00 on September 30, 2025 $15.00 on September 30, 2026

Beginning 2027, the minimum wage will be adjusted annually for inflation, as it has been since 2004. This budget prepares the county to meet the mandated increase in minimum wage.

A few other unfunded state mandates that significantly impact the County budget include Medicaid cost sharing and Emergency Medical Services.