Pay to rise for millions as 19 states increase minimum wage

[Judi Lynn]

Source: Associated Press

David Klepper, Associated Press

Updated 6:21 pm, Thursday, December 29, 2016



ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — It will be a happy New Year indeed for millions of the lowest-paid U.S. workers. Nineteen states, including New York and California, will ring in the year with an increase in the minimum wage.

Massachusetts and Washington state will have the highest new minimum wages in the country, at $11 per hour.

California will raise its wage to $10.50 for businesses with 26 or more employees. New York state is taking a regional approach, with the wage rising to $11 in New York City, to $10.50 for small businesses in the city, $10 in its downstate suburbs and $9.70 elsewhere. Some specific businesses — fast-food restaurants and the smallest New York City businesses — will have slightly different wage requirements.

"This $1.50 increase, I cannot even comprehend or tell you how important this will be," said Alvin Major, a New York City fast-food worker. The 51-year-old father of four helped lead the fight for the increase in his state, one of several successful efforts by fast-food workers and other low wage workers around the country. "The price of food has gone up. Rent has gone up. Everything has gone up. ... This will make a difference for so many people."

Read more: http://www.chron.com/news/us/article/Pay-to-rise-for-millions-as-19-states-increase-10825088.php

[Turbineguy]

1. Those who voted for Trump

will be upset with their raise as it may lead to a reduction in income equality.

[tenorly]

2. A Trump crony will probably announce "10,000 layoffs" then quietly rescind the order.

Faux News will continue citing the "announcement" for years as proof minimum wage hikes don't work.

[IronLionZion]

3. The economies will improve in those areas

just like they already have in places that were liberal enough to put more money into the hands of people who will spend it. Trickle up!

[louis-t]

4. My take is: drumpf will take credit for

economic conditions improving in those areas.

[lancelyons]

5. Now many poor workers will get a little richer in some states.

Now many poor workers will get a little richer in some states.

Meanwhile the poor workers that voted for Trump in red states will still be wondering when they are going to get help.