On February 21, 2026, Ohio Governor Jennifer Smith signed a groundbreaking bill into law that aims to enhance protections for workers in the state. The bill, titled the Worker Protection and Empowerment Act, includes a number of provisions designed to improve labor and employment conditions for all Ohioans.One of the key components of the new law is the establishment of a statewide minimum wage of $15 per hour, significantly higher than the current federal minimum wage of $7.25. This increase will provide a much-needed boost to low-income workers in Ohio, many of whom have struggled to make ends meet on salaries that have not kept pace with the rising cost of living.In addition to raising the minimum wage, the Worker Protection and Empowerment Act also includes measures to strengthen workplace safety standards and protect workers from retaliation for reporting violations. Under the new law, employers will be required to provide workers with adequate safety training and ensure that they have access to necessary protective equipment.Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions to expand paid sick leave and family leave benefits for Ohio workers. Employers with more than 50 employees will be required to provide their employees with up to 12 weeks of paid family leave per year, while all employees will be entitled to a minimum of five days of paid sick leave annually.Governor Smith hailed the passage of the Worker Protection and Empowerment Act as a major victory for Ohio's working families. In a statement released after signing the bill, she said, "This legislation represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to create a fairer and more equitable economy for all Ohioans. By enacting these pro-worker reforms, we are sending a clear message that the state of Ohio values the contributions of every worker and is committed to ensuring their rights and well-being are protected."The new law will go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving employers and workers alike time to adjust to the changes. Advocates for workers' rights have praised the passage of the bill, calling it a long-overdue victory for Ohio's labor movement. They believe that the Worker Protection and Empowerment Act will help improve the lives of countless workers across the state and set a positive example for other states to follow.