Contact: Blake Case
blake@emccommunications.com, (601) 832-6079

June 20, 2023 — Pennsylvania business owners are applauding House passage of legislation to increase the state’s long stagnant minimum wage (HB 1500) and urge the Senate to advance the raise. Business leaders say that a raise would increase consumer spending, strengthen the workforce and boost the economy. House Bill 1500 passed the House today and business owners call for the legislation’s swift passage in the Senate and signing into law by Governor Shapiro.

Pennsylvania’s minimum wage hasn’t increased since the federal minimum wage was increased to $7.25 in 2009. Under the legislation passed by the House, the Pennsylvania minimum wage would increase from $7.25 to $11 in 2024, $13 in 2025, and $15 in 2026, with future cost of living adjustments beginning in 2027. The minimum wage for tipped workers would be set at 60% of the minimum wage (employers are required to make up the difference if the tipped worker wage plus tips does not match the full minimum wage).

John Schall, owner of El Jefe’s Taqueria with locations in Pittsburgh, Bethlehem and State College, said, “Raising Pennsylvania’s minimum wage is long overdue. It will put more money in people’s pockets and help businesses and our economy grow. Fair pay is critical to El Jefe’s success. We don’t have trouble hiring, our low employee turnover saves us time and money, and our teams work better together. Our customers appreciate the good food and service that our employees are able to provide whether it’s early morning or late at night.”

Amy Edelman, owner of Night Kitchen Bakery & Cafe in Philadelphia, said, “Paying employees a fair wage is good business. Employees who aren’t continually stressed about making ends meet can focus on taking care of our customers and producing delicious baked goods, which translates into the returning customers that drive small-business success. Raising Pennsylvania's minimum wage will boost spending at local businesses and create a better economy for everyone.” 

Peter Barber, CEO of Two Dudes Painting Company in Lancaster, said, “I’m thrilled to see that the Pennsylvania legislature is moving forward with an increase in the minimum wage. These efforts will help ensure a vibrant workforce that is fairly compensated and is committed to producing the best goods and services available. An engaged workforce will continue to help Pennsylvanians and our communities to thrive.”

Jennie Groff, CEO and co-owner of Stroopies in Lancaster, said, “I am absolutely thrilled to hear about the progress that this legislation is making to raise the minimum wage in Pennsylvania. This is certainly wonderful news for the people of our state. As a small business owner in Pennsylvania I fully support this legislation and will cheer on its progress!”

To schedule interviews with business owners supportive of raising the minimum wage, contact Blake Case at blake@emccommunications.com or (601) 832-6079.

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Business for a Fair Minimum Wage is a national network of business owners and executives and business organizations that believe a fair minimum wage makes good business sense. www.businessforafairminimumwage.org.