Hare Statement on Federal Minimum Wage Increase

Press Release

Congressman Phil Hare (D-IL), a former clothing factory worker and union steward, released the following statement regarding tomorrow's increase in the federal minimum wage from $5.85 to $6.55 per hour, the second of three steps on the way to $7.25.

"The passage of legislation increasing the federal minimum wage remains one of the most significant accomplishments of the 110th Congress. I hope this second modest pay raise will help more working families make ends meet.

"This increase comes at a time when many Americans are struggling to afford even the most basic necessities like food, health care, and energy.

"At $6.55 an hour, the new federal minimum wage is still too low. I am pleased that next summer it will jump to $7.25. But I believe we need to go even further by indexing the minimum wage for inflation in the future. No one who works full time should live in poverty.

"With this increase, I hope minimum wage workers will take some comfort in knowing that Democrats in Congress have and will continue to fight to raise their pay."

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