Pennsylvania lawmakers propose raising the minimum wage to $18 an hour

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – A Pennsylvania lawmaker has proposed more than doubling the state minimum wage starting next year.

Rep. G. Roni Green (D-Philadelphia) issued a memo to all members of the House of Representatives on February 2, who proposed legislation to raise the minimum wage to $18 an hour.

Green says her bill would gradually increase the hourly minimum wage through July 1, 2024. The bill would also raise the minimum wage for tipped employees to $8 an hour and ensure that tipped employees receive the full amount of the tip.

Municipalities would also have the option to set a higher minimum wage under Green’s proposed law.

“We need to make sure all workers are getting what they’re worth,” Green said. “Without a fair wage we will never ensure an equal and just society. $7.25 an hour isn’t equal, it’s not right, and it’s not fair. Please join me in bringing workers in Pennsylvania a fair and living wage.”

Pennsylvania State Senator in January Wayne D Fontana (D-Allegheny) said he plans to introduce a bill that would amend the constitution to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour.

Fontana said Pennsylvanians should have a voice on whether the minimum wage should be raised. He said the legislation would gradually increase the minimum wage through January 2025 and require the minimum wage to be adjusted for inflation.