By Stacy Wescoe
Lehigh Valley Business, June 21, 2023. Also in Central Penn Business Journal.
The State of Pennsylvania is moving towards a higher minimum wage. The House of Representatives has voted to raise the minimum wage in a proposal that would gradually increase the minimum wage from the current $7.25 an hour to $15 an hour by 2026. ...There would be annual cost-of-living increases beginning in 2027.
The plan has also received support from some business owners in the state, including John Schall, owner of El Jefe’s Taqueria in Bethlehem.
“Raising Pennsylvania’s minimum wage is long overdue. It will put more money in people’s pockets and help businesses and our economy grow,” he said in a release. “Fair pay is critical to El Jefe’s success. We don’t have trouble hiring, our low employee turnover saves us time and money, and our teams work better together. Our customers appreciate the good food and service that our employees are able to provide whether it’s early morning or late at night.”
Peter Barber, CEO of Two Dudes Painting Company in Lancaster, also commented in a release.
“I’m thrilled to see that the Pennsylvania legislature is moving forward with an increase in the minimum wage,” he said. “These efforts will help ensure a vibrant workforce that is fairly compensated and is committed to producing the best goods and services available. An engaged workforce will continue to help Pennsylvanians and our communities to thrive.” ...