Senate Republicans Kill Modest Increase to State Minimum Wage
Contact Name: Marina Altschiller
Phone: (603) 271-3207
CONCORD – Today, Senate Republicans voted ITL on SB 136, which would have made a moderate increase to the state’s minimum wage, which the state has not increased in 14 years.
After the vote, prime sponsor Senate Democratic Leader Donna Soucy (D-Manchester) issued the following statement:
“There is a very real perception and concern that here in New Hampshire, we don’t value our workers the way our surrounding New England states do—all of which have a minimum wage of at least $10.50, while ours languishes at $7.25. It’s time that we acknowledge and recognize the value and dignity of work. Right now, a Granite Stater working 40 hours a week at minimum wage, working all year with no time off, is making $15,000 per year. This is below the federal poverty level—even if they’re only providing for just themselves. This isn’t enough for one person to live on, never mind to support a family with. Beyond being right for workers and the economy, this is right for families struggling to make ends meet. By lifting working folks out of poverty, we can increase self-sufficient families and households.
People want to work, and they want to be able to provide for their families. Sadly, today’s vote represented a missed opportunity to help them do just that. It is well past time to take this modest but important step toward supporting those who are most financially vulnerable and in so doing, making a critical investment in our state’s future. I will not be deterred in my efforts to improve the lives of Granite Staters by raising the minimum wage.”
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