Increase the Minimum Wage

United Church of Christ Action Alert

Proposed legislation to increase the minimum wage has been defeated in Congress for five years in a row. As a result, the minimum wage of $5.15 per hour, last increased in 1997, has significantly deteriorated in value. The best chance to increase the minimum wage is in an election year. A measure to increase the minimum wage to $7.00 an hour over two years, consistent with the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2004, will be proposed as an amendment to other legislation this year. The measure faces vigorous opposition in the House and Senate, as well as a veto threat from the President.

People can't make a living on $5.15 an hour. An increase in the minimum wage, together with the Earned Income Tax Credit and food stamp assistance, would enable families and individuals to live with some measure of dignity. Currently a full-time, year-round minimum wage worker earns about $5,000 below what is needed to support a family of three at the 2004 federal poverty level. An increase in the minimum wage to $7.00 would raise a full-time worker's wage by $3,800 a year.

Studies claiming that increasing the minimum wage hurts workers and the economy have never been substantiated. States that have passed supplemental increases in the state minimum wage have not shown a negative impact compared to other states. Businesses will continue to hire the workers they need.

Contact your members of Congress and urge them to support an increase in the minimum wage this year. To send a fax or e-mail message to your members of Congress click here.