O'Brien calls for minimum wage increase





Of course, like my colleagues, I agree that the minimum wage increase will help hardworking families afford life's necessities. But I'd like to emphasize that it will also strengthen our economy and benefit folks at all income levels. Minimum wage workers put their increased wages right back into the economy by buying things they sorely need and have been living without. That helps our economy. And more purchasing means additional sales tax revenues. These revenues will help ease the tremendous financial stress felt by local governments and school districts.

I understand that increasing minimum wage increases some costs for certain employers, That is why I am pleased that we are talking, seriously about raising the minimum wage at the same time we are considering a budget that incorporates significant assistance to employers in the form of workers compensation reform. In this way we can reduce the burden to employers while balancing the contribution of low wage workers, and making our economy work for everyone."


Media contact:

Thomas J. Morrisey
Communications Director
office: (585) 223-1800
e-mail: tjmorris@nysenate.gov

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