Bustos Helps Pass Raise the Wage Act

Press Release

Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) helped pass the Raise the Wage Act. This legislation would raise the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 by 2025 and give more than 33 million hardworking Americans a raise. Additionally, this bill would lift 1.3 million Americans out of poverty, including 600,000 children.

"All across our region, I hear from hardworking men and women who haven't gotten a raise in years -- because too often, Washington works for the wealthy few instead of the hardworking men and women who power this country," Congresswoman Bustos said. "I'm proud of Gov. Pritzker's leadership raising the minimum wage in our state and, by giving 33 million Americans a much-needed raise, this legislation would make sure this important progress isn't limited to Illinois. In Congress, I'll continue to stay laser-focused on growing Illinoisans' paychecks and creating good-paying jobs that can support a family."

The last federal minimum wage increase was 10 years ago -- the longest stretch without an increase in U.S. history. Further, one in nine American workers are paid wages that leave them living in poverty -- even while working full-time and year-round. This legislation will not only help workers but will also boost the economy. By putting money back in the pockets of workers and their families, spending in households with minimum wage workers increased, on average, at least $700 per quarter, according to economic research.

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