A proposed bill could raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to the highest in the nation, as early as July 1st, if passed. Since 2009 the minimum wage in the Commonwealth has been $7.25 per hour, however, Senate Bill 1186 aims at raising the wage in Pennsylvania to $20 per hour. The bill highlights the need to provide cost of living adjusted increases. According to a state report, of workers who would benefit from a higher minimum wage, 84% are adults — not teenagers. More than half are between 20 and 39 years old. Currently debate in the general assembly is stuck on either a $15 or $20 minimum wage for the Commonwealth.
