CONTACT: Blake Case
blake@emccommunications.com, (601) 832-6079
June 23, 2025 — On July 1, Alaska’s minimum wage will increase from $11.91 to $13 and workers will begin accruing paid sick time in accordance with Ballot Measure 1, passed by voters in November. Business owners across the state say that minimum wage increases and paid sick leave will boost consumer spending and strengthen Alaska’s workforce and businesses.
Last November, 58% of Alaska voters approved Ballot Measure 1, which will gradually raise the state minimum wage to $15 by 2027 and enable workers to earn paid sick time. The Alaska Business for Better Jobs coalition of more than 130 Alaska businesses and the Alaska Black Chamber of Commerce supported the measure.
Mark Robokoff, owner of AK Bark pet supply store in Anchorage: “We are eager for July 1st, when so many of our customers’ incomes will increase substantially. Our employees already earn well above minimum wage as well as paid time off, strengthening our business and allowing them to spend more money with other local businesses. As the playing field becomes more level, Alaska businesses will see increased revenue and decreased employee turnover, which will help cover the cost of increased wages. Alaska’s communities will benefit greatly. Aside from the economic gains, this law improves the lives, security and overall state of mind of members of Alaska communities.”
David Ottoson, owner of Rainbow Foods in Juneau: “We welcome the minimum wage increase and guaranteed paid sick time that will enable people to stay home when they’re sick, without fear of missing pay. Our commitment to fair pay runs deep, and it helps our business thrive. Our employees provide great customer service. Our sales are up and I think more and more people are supporting local businesses because they understand that doing so keeps dollars in our local economies. By the same token, higher wages put more dollars into local economies, which makes them more resilient and strengthens the overall health of our communities.”
Carey Fristoe, co-owner of Black Spruce Brewing Co. in Fairbanks: “We’re excited for the minimum wage increase and for paid sick leave to take effect in Alaska. It will bring more stability for our customers in these uncertain times. Rising wages means more patrons who are able to enjoy a beer. And workers won’t be penalized by losing pay for being sick. As a brewery, we understand that if people are coming to work sick, that’s bad for workers, customers and the whole community.”
Alaska’s minimum wage will increase again to $14 in July 2026, and to $15 in July 2027. Annual cost of living adjustments will start on January 1, 2028, so the minimum wage does not lose buying power. Under the paid sick leave provisions of Ballot Measure 1, employees will earn one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. Employers with fewer than 15 employees can limit usage to 40 hours per year; those with 15 or more employees can set a limit of 56 hours per year. Employers are also prohibited from requiring employees to attend meetings on political or religious matters unrelated to their work.
To schedule interviews with Alaska business owners supporting the minimum wage increase, contact Blake Case at blake@emccommunications.com or (601) 832-6079.
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Business for a Fair Minimum Wage is a network of business owners and executives and business organizations that believe fair pay makes good business sense. www.businessforafairminimumwage.org.