Capps Celebrates First Federal Minimum Wage Increase in Ten Years

Press Release

Congresswoman Capps celebrated the first federal minimum wage increase in a decade after Democratic legislation raising the minimum wage took effect today in states across the country. The measure raises the federal minimum wage from $5.15 to $7.25 in three steps over two years, bringing the federal minimum closer to the California state minimum of $7.50. The increase in the federal minimum wage will also help prevent other states from undercutting California's state minimum wage requirements. The federal minimum wage increase was combined with a $4.84 billion package of assistance to small businesses to encourage employment and create jobs.

"I am so pleased that America's hard working families are finally getting a much needed pay raise," said Capps. "Over the last ten years the cost of living has rapidly increased while the federal minimum wage remained stagnate, frozen by Congressional Republicans. Raising the minimum wage is just one of many efforts by the Democratic Majority in Congress to strengthen our economy and provide more opportunity and prosperity for all Americans. The Democratic led Congress is also working to reduce the cost of college, increase energy efficiency and alternative fuel use, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and increase health coverage for millions of uninsured kids. Despite continued resistance from Congressional Republicans and the Bush Administration, the Democratic Congress will continue to be a force for positive change for our country."

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