Senator Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) is preparing to introduce legislation to increase Pennsylvania’s minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to $10 per hour.
“I have heard from my constituents and have listened to both sides of the political aisle. It is definitely time that we address the issue and I believe my bill is the most responsible way to approach it,” said Senator Laughlin. “My legislation increases Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $10 and – based on inflation – would provide for regular increases as appropriate.”
Senator Laughlin’s bill would also increase the tipped wage to 50 percent of the minimum wage, raising it from $2.83 to $5 per hour.
Until 1996, increases in the tipped wage corresponded with increases in the minimum wage,” Senator Laughlin said. “Since that time, Pennsylvania’s tipped wage has remained $2.83 per hour. Today, the value of the tipped wage has depreciated to 39 percent of the minimum wage. My bill would make it more equitable.”
Contact: Matt Azeles mazeles@pasen.gov