Minimum Wages Set to Rise in Nearly Half of U.S. States This Year

This year, almost half of U.S. states, including Virginia, will see minimum wage increases, impacting many workers across the country.

Minimum Wages Set to Rise in Nearly Half of U.S. States This Year
Minimum Wages Set to Rise in Nearly Half of U.S. States This Year

Kansas City: Advocates for raising the minimum wage have been active, especially with many states increasing their rates this year. The federal minimum wage is still stuck at $7.25, but states are taking action.

In some places, wages automatically go up with inflation. Voters in states like Alaska and Missouri decided to raise their minimum wages significantly. For instance, Michigan’s wage will jump from $10.33 to $12.48 soon, thanks to a court ruling that favored voters’ wishes.

By 2028, Michigan’s minimum wage could reach $14.97, which is more than double the federal rate that hasn’t changed since 2009. Currently, 30 states and D.C. have set their minimum wages higher than the federal level, with 67 localities also raising theirs above state minimums.

Ten states, including California and New York, have minimum wages of $15 or more. States like Alaska and Florida are on track to hit that mark soon. Richard von Glahn from Missouri Jobs with Justice believes this trend should encourage Republican lawmakers to consider a national wage increase.

In Missouri, a successful campaign raised the minimum wage to $15 starting next January. This change will benefit over half a million workers in the state. For people like Kaamilya Hobbs, who works at Arby’s, even a small raise can help with everyday expenses like diapers.

While some argue that raising wages could lead to job cuts or higher prices, advocates say it helps workers keep up with rising costs. President-elect Trump acknowledged the low federal rate but warned against raising it too much.

Alaska recently saw a small increase due to inflation, but a new law will raise it to $13 in July, with further increases planned. Business groups opposed this change, fearing it would hurt smaller businesses and lead to higher prices.

However, some business owners, like Mark Robokoff in Anchorage, see the wage increase as beneficial. He believes it will put more money in customers’ pockets, which can help businesses thrive. He plans to raise his starting wages to attract good staff as the minimum wage goes up.

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