More than 9,800 Walmart and Sam's Club associates in New Mexico will soon receive pay increases and bonuses totaling $11.8 million Walmart is also significantly expanding parental leave and adoption benefits for its associates statewide.
The increased wages and benefits in New Mexico are part of Walmart's Jan. 11 announcement that it is raising the starting wage rate for hourly associates across the country to $11. Walmart will provide a one-time cash bonus of up to $1,000 to eligible associates as well as expand its benefits offerings. The changes place Walmart as one of the leading companies in America when it comes to parental leave.
Here are some highlights specific to New Mexico:
- More than 5,300 Walmart and Sam's Club associates in New Mexico will soon receive wage increases and bonuses totaling $8.1 million
- More than 9,800 Walmart and Sam's Club associates in New Mexico qualify for a one-time cash bonus totaling $3.7 million
- Walmart's new average hourly wage for full-time associates in New Mexico will be $14.38
- In New Mexico and across the country, associates will receive expanded parental and adoption benefits including:
- Full-time hourly associates in the U.S. receive 10 weeks of paid maternity leave and six weeks of paid parental leave
- Salaried associates will receive six weeks of paid parental leave
- Full-time hourly and salaried associates will receive up to $5,000 per child in financial assistance to support adoptions
"Walmart's announcement demonstrates the positive effects of tax reform that will be good for New Mexican businesses as well," said Jason Espinoza, President and CEO of the New Mexico Association of Commerce and Industry. "When you create a business-friendly climate for companies, it gives them the opportunity to invest in their employees."