Congressman Lipinski Helps House Pass Long-Overdue Minimum Wage Increase

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Dan Lipinski joined a bipartisan majority in the House of Representatives to help pass H.R. 2, legislation that will raise the nation's minimum wage to $7.25 over the next two years.  This bill, which was co-sponsored by Representative Lipinski, will provide the first minimum wage increase since 1996 and is one of the issues that the new Democratic majority has made a priority in their middle-class agenda. 

"The minimum wage, which has remained unchanged for nearly 10 years, is at its lowest real value in more than half a century," said Lipinski.  "As a result, millions of Americans are working full time yet still living in poverty. Work needs to be rewarded.  That is why I co-sponsored and helped to pass H.R. 2.  This bill will benefit nearly 13 million working Americans and their families."

This increase in the federal minimum wage will be implemented in three phases over a two-year period.  Sixty days after the legislation is enacted, the minimum wage would increase to $5.85.  One year later, the minimum wage will increase to $6.55 per hour.  A year after that, the minimum wage will increase to $7.25 per hour. 

"Raising the minimum wage is the first step to a stronger economy for all Americans, not just for the privileged few," said Lipinski. "Our action today will make a real difference in the lives of America's working families."