Multiple states and cities raise minimum wages to $15 or higher

Millions of workers will see higher pay this month as 19 states and 49 cities and counties increase their minimum wage floors to at least $15 an hour for some or all employees, the New York Times reports. According to the National Employment Law Project, 88 states, counties and cities will make adjustments by the end of the year.

The Economic Policy Institute said that for the first time more Americans will earn a minimum wage of $15 or more than will earn the federal minimum of $7.25, which has not changed since 2009. The increases, a majority of which took effect Jan. 1, are expected to boost the earnings of about 8.3 million workers by roughly $5 billion, the EPI estimated.

Specific increases noted include Colorado to $15.16 from $14.81, Maine to $15.10 from $14.65, Minneapolis to $16.37 from $15.97 and Tucson to $15.45 from $15; some tipped wages will also rise. Supporters point to a need for a “living wage,” while critics have argued hikes can hurt small businesses, cut hours or raise prices.

The article traces many of the raises to grassroots campaigns, including the Fight for $15 movement.

Key Topics

Business, Minimum Wage, Economic Policy Institute, Proposition A, Mike Kehoe, Minneapolis