As an expert in labor law and employment standards, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the federal minimum wage and its application in the United States.
The federal minimum wage in the United States is governed by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which is enforced by the Wage and Hour Division (WHD) of the U.S. Department of Labor. The FLSA establishes minimum wage, overtime pay eligibility, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards affecting employees in the private sector and in federal, state, and local governments.
**The federal minimum wage applies to covered nonexempt employees**, which means it is applicable to a broad range of workers who are not exempt from the FLSA's minimum wage and overtime provisions. The term "nonexempt" refers to employees who are not classified as exempt under the FLSA. Exempt employees are those who are not entitled to the minimum wage or overtime pay as defined by the act. They typically include certain professionals, executives, and administrative employees who meet specific criteria regarding their job duties and pay.
As of July 24, 2009, the federal minimum wage is set at $7.25 per hour. However, it is important to note that this rate may not apply to all workers. There are certain categories of employees who may be exempt from the federal minimum wage, including:
1. **Executive, Administrative, and Professional Employees**: These are often referred to as "white-collar" workers who meet specific salary and job duty requirements. They are considered exempt under the FLSA's "white-collar" exemptions.

2. Outside Sales Employees: Individuals whose primary job duty is making sales and who are employed outside the office, such as retail salespersons or door-to-door sales agents, may be exempt from the minimum wage.

3. Agricultural Workers: Some agricultural laborers may be subject to different minimum wage provisions under the FLSA.

4. Tipped Employees: Employees who regularly receive more than $30 a month in tips may have a lower cash wage, but they must still earn at least the federal minimum wage when their tips are combined with their wages.

5. Youth Under 20: There is a special provision for employees who are under the age of 20 during their first 90 consecutive calendar days of employment, allowing for a training wage that is lower than the standard minimum wage.

6. Workers with Disabilities: Special minimum wage certificates may be issued for workers with disabilities, allowing employers to pay a wage lower than the federal minimum wage under certain conditions.
7.
Live-in Domestic Workers: Some domestic workers who live in the home of their employer may have different minimum wage and overtime requirements.
8.
Retaliation or Discrimination: The FLSA also prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who assert their rights under the act or from discriminating against employees based on their sex, age, or other protected characteristics.
It is also crucial to be aware that **many states have their own minimum wage laws**, which may be higher than the federal rate. In such cases, employers are required to pay the higher of the two rates. Additionally, local jurisdictions may have minimum wage laws that are higher than both the state and federal rates, and employers must comply with the highest applicable minimum wage.
Employers must ensure that they are in compliance with both federal and state labor laws, as failure to do so can result in penalties, including back wages, fines, and legal action. Employees who believe they are not being paid in accordance with the FLSA can file a complaint with the WHD, which will investigate the claim and take appropriate action if necessary.
In conclusion, the federal minimum wage is a baseline standard that applies to a wide array of workers, with certain exceptions for exempt employees and specific categories of workers. It is a critical component of the labor laws in the United States, designed to protect workers and ensure fair compensation for their labor.

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Minimum Wage - Wage and Hour Division (WHD) - U.S. Department of Labor. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the federal minimum wage for covered nonexempt employees is $7.25 per hour effective July 24, 2009. Many states also have minimum wage laws.read more >>