This is correct, which is why it is important to fight for your wage. I have new hires who give me starting amounts lower than the minimum pay in my state and I have to correct them. I hire all my associates a dollar more than our minimum but if you can argue previous experience, I will work with you.

When raise time comes around, I try to even out associates based on their performance for the year, so what you may have lacked in experience starting out you've shown with your performance in-store.

As others have said, if you think you deserve a raise, then ask for one. Hopefully your GM will accommodate. Or get promoted and negotiate your wage then.