What is the minimum hourly wage Bob can be paid based on his workplace location?

The minimum hourly wage Bob can be paid is determined by federal and state laws, and the correct answer reflects a widely recognized federal minimum wage standard. The federal minimum wage is set at $7.25 per hour, which has been the baseline since 2009. This wage is applicable across the United States unless a state or local law sets a higher minimum wage, in which case the higher rate takes precedence over the federal rate.

While $8.06 may represent a state-specific minimum wage in some areas or a previously adjusted rate before 2023, $7.25 is the minimum requirement enforced nationally. Therefore, it is essential to verify local laws when considering wage compliance, but the federal standard remains a critical baseline for workers across the country.

The choice indicating either $8.06 or $7.25 as valid options suggests variability that could exist, but since $7.25 is the definitive federal minimum wage, the clarity offered by stating just $7.25 reinforces its position as the minimum wage that must be adhered to unless there's a more favorable state law. Thus, considering all factors, $7.25 is the accurately designated minimum hourly wage Bob can be paid based on these stipulations.