As an expert in labor economics and regional policy, I have been closely monitoring the changes in minimum wage laws across the United States. The minimum wage is a crucial economic indicator that reflects the cost of labor and the standard of living in a region. It's also a topic of significant debate, as it impacts both businesses and workers.
To answer your question regarding the state with the highest minimum wage, it's important to note that minimum wage levels can vary greatly from state to state and are often subject to change based on legislative decisions and economic conditions. As of my last update, which is based on the information provided and the date of January 5, 2017, the District of Columbia has the highest minimum wage in the United States at $11.50 per hour. This is followed by Massachusetts and Washington, both of which have set their minimum wage at $11.00 per hour.
It's worth mentioning that in addition to these jurisdictions, a total of 29 states have established minimum wage levels that exceed the federal minimum wage standard of $7.25 an hour. This is a significant development as it indicates a trend towards higher minimum wages across the country, which can have profound effects on income inequality, poverty levels, and the overall health of the economy.
The impact of a higher minimum wage is multifaceted. On one hand, it can lead to increased consumer spending, which can stimulate economic growth. On the other hand, there are concerns that it may lead to reduced hiring, increased automation, or higher prices for goods and services. The net effect of minimum wage increases is a subject of ongoing research and debate among economists.
States and localities often set their minimum wage levels based on the cost of living, the state of the economy, and the political will of the governing bodies. It's also common for these levels to be adjusted annually to account for inflation, ensuring that the minimum wage retains its purchasing power over time.
It's important to stay informed about the current minimum wage in each state, as these figures are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's recommended to consult official government sources or reliable economic databases.

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No. 1: District of Columbia. The nation's capital is home not only to the highest offices in the land but also to the highest minimum wage of any U.S. state or territory, now at $11.50 per hour. Under a local law, annual midyear increases will take the district's hourly minimum to $15 by 2020.Jan 2, 2017read more >>