By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Beginning July 1, workers in more than 20 states and cities will receive higher paychecks as new minimum wage increases take effect, even as the federal minimum wage remains unchanged at $7.25 per hour.
The federal minimum wage has not increased since 2009, and according to labor advocates, inflation has reduced its purchasing power by more than 30% over the past 16 years.
Among the statewide increases, Alaska’s minimum wage will rise from $13 to $14 per hour, while Oregon will boost wages based on region, with workers in the Portland metropolitan area earning as much as $16.80 per hour.
Several major cities are also raising their wage floors. Chicago’s minimum wage will increase from $16.60 to $17.05 per hour, San Francisco’s will rise from $19.18 to $19.61, and Washington, D.C., will increase its minimum wage from $17.95 to $18.40 per hour.
In California, many healthcare workers will also see significant wage increases, with some hospitals and healthcare systems required to pay eligible employees at least $25 per hour.
Supporters of higher minimum wages argue the increases help workers keep pace with rising housing, food and transportation costs while strengthening local economies. Opponents, including many business groups, contend higher labor costs can lead to increased prices and reduced hiring.
Meanwhile, Alabama remains among the states that follow the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, with no statewide increase scheduled.
Source: Stateline News — Reporting by Kevin Hardy.