Democrats Push $15 Minimum Wage Hikes as Economists Warn of Higher Prices and Fewer Jobs
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Nov 14
Democrats Push $15 Minimum Wage Hikes as Economists Warn of Higher Prices and Fewer Jobs
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Nov 14
Summary
Pennsylvania Democrats made a $15 minimum wage one of their first post-midterm priorities, with Gov. Josh Shapiro pledging to lift the state rate from $7.25 by about 107%.
Economists and policy critics say steep hikes can force small businesses to raise prices, cut hours or slow hiring, with entry-level and inexperienced workers seen as most exposed.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker is also pressing for a federal increase, while House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said the $7.25 federal minimum should rise after nearly 20 years unchanged.
Seattle offers a live test case: its minimum wage is $21.30 and will reach $22.14 in January, while a survey found 67% of 136 local small businesses reporting more strain than during the pandemic.
Research on Seattle remains mixed, underscoring the broader tradeoff Democrats face as they pair affordability promises with wage mandates that supporters say lift pay and critics say can curb job opportunities.