Contact: Cat Ulrich
cat@emccommunications.com, (202) 630-7839

July 7, 2022 —Nebraska business owners spoke today about the importance of raising the state’s minimum wage as Raise the Wage Nebraska submitted signatures to the Secretary of State for the ballot initiative to gradually raise the state minimum wage to $15 by 2026. Business leaders say raising the minimum wage will boost consumer buying power, strengthen workforces, and benefit businesses and the economy.

The ballot initiative would increase Nebraska’s minimum wage from $9 to $10.50 per hour on Jan. 1, 2023, $12 on Jan. 1, 2024, $13.50 on Jan. 1, 2025, and $15 on Jan. 1, 2026, followed by annual cost of living adjustments so the minimum wage does not lose purchasing power.

“Raising the minimum wage is a win/win for businesses and workers,” said Dave Titterington, owner of Wild Bird Habitat Stores in Lincoln and Omaha. “When you pay employees a living wage, they’re happier, they’re more dedicated, and they’re more productive. And raising the minimum wage will enable workers to spend more at local businesses all across Nebraska.”

“Fair wages are the single best way you can show your employees that you value them. In return, our employees take great care of our customers,” said Alma Cerretta, co-owner of Mana Games, a gaming café in Lincoln. “Happy customers come back. And they bring their friends and families. Fair wages make a business stronger. They also make the economy and our communities stronger. Raising the minimum wage is important for workers and for businesses.”

Rick Poore, owner of Shirts 101 in Lincoln, said, “Fair wages are a commitment we’ve made to people. And our people are committed to our business in turn. Our employees are more productive, make fewer costly mistakes, and provide excellent production work and customer service that keeps customers coming back and attracts new customers. And let’s not forget that workers at one business are also customers at many other businesses. Raising the minimum wage will help Nebraska’s workers make ends meet and boost our economy.”

To arrange an interview with Nebraska business leaders supportive of raising the minimum wage, please contact Cat Ulrich at cat@emccommunications.com or (202) 630-7839.

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Nebraska Business for a Fair Minimum Wage is a new and growing coalition of business owners and executives who support raising Nebraska’s minimum wage. 

Paid for by Raise the Wage Nebraska.