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

Sept. 6, 2022 —Nebraska business owners said today’s Secretary of State announcement that the initiative to raise the minimum wage has qualified for the November ballot is good news. Business leaders say that gradually raising Nebraska’s minimum wage to $15 by 2026 will bolster local businesses and the economy. 

Rick Poore, owner of Shirts 101 in Lincoln, said, “Raising the minimum wage will help Nebraska’s workers make ends meet and boost our economy. 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.”

Jeffrey Bell, owner of 11:Eleven shop and wine bar in Omaha, said, “People can’t live on Nebraska’s current minimum wage. Raising the minimum wage will put more money in workers’ pockets and bolster local businesses. We pay our employees above minimum wage so they know we value them and, in turn, they provide better customer service and experiences for our patrons. Happy customers will keep coming back.”

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.

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.