Rhode Island Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse are offering legislation that would gradually increase the federal minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to 17 dollars an hour by the year 2030.
The wage was last increased back in 2009.
The Senators say global profits have risen, as have the costs of goods and the time is now to help people make a liveable wage.
The Senators say that the idea would also be to increase the wage for tipped workers as well.
“The federal minimum wage has been stuck at $7.25 for too long. No one in today’s economy can make ends meet working for such meager pay. Rhode Islanders deserve a raise and workers deserve to be fairly compensated. Right now, those making minimum wage can’t afford housing, food, and transportation so taxpayers end up subsidizing employers that pay so little. When all businesses have to operate on a level playing field with fair pay it helps prevent costly turnover and re-training of workers. The Raise the Wage Act would help strengthen families, businesses, and our economy,” said Senator Reed.
“As rising costs squeeze families across Rhode Island, it’s well past time to increase the federal minimum wage,” said Senator Whitehouse. “Our legislation will help more Americans get a foothold in the middle class by paying them a livable wage.”
Unions have endorsed the proposal.
(Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)
Photo: Kayla Bartkowski / Getty Images News / Getty Images