$7.25 is not enough. Raise the minimum wage to a living wage
All workers deserve fair compensation to support their families. Securing a livable wage is essential for accessing basic necessities like housing, healthcare, childcare, and education.
Problem
Unfortunately, many workers, particularly those who are Black, Brown, Indigenous, immigrant, and/or rural, struggle to make ends meet due to Wisconsin's current minimum wage of $7.25 an hour ($2.35 for tipped workers). This stagnant wage not only perpetuates poverty but also weakens workers' bargaining power in the labor market. Neighboring states have raised their minimum wages, leaving Wisconsin's low-wage workers falling behind and hindering our economic growth potential.
Solution
By establishing a living wage, policy makers can take a proactive step towards dismantling racial inequalities, empowering low wage workers, and fostering economic justice. This action is essential for creating a more inclusive society where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive regardless of their race or background.
Local
The WI legislature preempts the ability of cities and other local units of government to pursue higher wages. This holds wages down especially in Milwaukee and Madison.
State
Raise the minimum wage – like 30 states already have
Eliminate the tip credit – like Minnesota and 6 other states have
Index the Wisconsin minimum wage to inflation – like 19 states have
Enforce the minimum wage.
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