Finally! The House just voted 315-116 to approve a $2.10 increase in the minimum wage over the next two years - the first increase in a decade that has seen strong economic growth and record corporate profits. Many Republicans - including Idaho's Mike Simpson - joined with Democrats in approving legislation that chief sponsor Rep. George Miller of California called a matter of economic fairness. Even at the higher level, people working full time at the minimum wage will make only $15,080 a year.
Some on the GOP side of the aisle sought to amend the bill to include tax breaks for small businesses they say will be unduly burdened by the minimum wage hike. (How can this be so when all businesses will face the same law?) The Senate will likely pass such a bill, then the conference committee can hammer out the details.
This is as it should be. Although some small businesses may have to raise prices slightly, for once everybody will have more money in their pockets - much of which will be spent locally, at small businesses. This is a win-win for everyone - and hopefully a step toward real living wages far above $7.25 an hour for America's working class.
This is awesome! Thank God we have a party in control who cares about the average American...
Posted by: Jessica | January 10, 2007 at 04:50 PM
Woo! 2007 is looking good already.
Posted by: Sara | January 10, 2007 at 05:20 PM
Props to Mike Simpson for being one of 82 Republicans who joined all 233 Democrats in voting for this.
Bill Sali voted no.
Posted by: Julie Fanselow | January 10, 2007 at 05:25 PM
Great job Silly Sali! Way to really show he cares about working poor. But by GOD he is sticking to his morals. GOD wants the poor to remain poor. Thank you for representing us!
Posted by: David Erin Anthony | January 10, 2007 at 05:53 PM