April 27, 2012

REP. JUAN CANDELARIA HAILS VOTE TO INCREASE MINIMUM WAGE IN CT

State Rep. Juan Candelaria is pleased to announce approval by the House of Representatives of legislation that would increase Connecticut’s minimum wage.

“This minimum wage increase, while small, is a step in the right direction to help ease the burden on hard working families in our state,” Candelaria said. “It is important that our workers understand that we are doing what we can to support them and ensure we provide the elements for them to move forward during these difficult financial times.”

House Bill 5291 would raise Connecticut’s minimum wage by $.50 to $8.75 per hour in two steps.  The minimum wage would increase from the current rate of $8.25 to $8.50 on January 1, 2013, and then to $8.75 on January 1, 2014. The legislation also includes minor adjustments to the minimum wage for restaurant wait-staff and bartenders who receive tips.

Although the minimum wage has been raised seventeen times since 1979 it has effectively decreased by 11 percent when adjusted for the cost of living.

“A single parent of three making the current minimum wage will only earn $17,160 working full time – far below the federal poverty threshold of $22,190,” Rep. Candelaria said.

A recent Quinnipiac poll indicates that 70% of Connecticut residents support raising the minimum wage.

Candelaria said, “106,000 workers in Connecticut earn minimum wage – almost 7 percent of our entire workforce.  Connecticut residents recognize these hardworking individuals need a raise.”

The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.