The annual debates about how much the minimum wage will increase each year have ended. From now on, the minimum wage will increase automatically until it stabilizes at 47% of the average wage in 2029. Currently, it stands at 41.1%, which translates to 18,900 korunas. President Petr Pavel decided to sign a government amendment to the Labor Code.
In addition to the minimum wage increase, the amendment also abolishes guaranteed wage levels in private companies, which set minimum incomes for various professions, such as cleaners, accountants, tram drivers, and even company directors. These levels will remain only in the public and state sectors, and their number will be reduced from eight to four.
Unions and opposition parties have criticized this move, arguing that it will harm employees who will lose the assurance of a minimum wage floor. However, Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Marian Jurečka (KDU-ČSL) rejected these concerns, stating that the increase in the minimum wage will drive up all incomes in the private sector.
The amendment also introduces the possibility of 24-hour shifts for employees in healthcare facilities with continuous operations, such as emergency services. By law, these lengthy shifts would come with a stipulated bonus. Currently, healthcare workers can serve 24-hour shifts, but according to legal regulations adopted last year, a shift can last a maximum of 12 hours, followed by possible overtime.
The new law will take effect later this year. However, the provision allowing employees to set their work hours into shifts by agreement with their employer will not be possible until next year. This change aims to provide more flexibility in work arrangements for employees and employers alike.
Finally, the amendment reflects a broader trend toward adapting labor laws to modern work environments and economic conditions. By making these adjustments, the government hopes to create a more dynamic and equitable labor market that can better respond to the needs of both workers and businesses.