HARRISBURG – Senator Camera Bartolotta (R-46) issued the following statement today regarding passage of legislation to increase Pennsylvania’s minimum wage incrementally from $7.25 to $9.50 by January 1, 2022:
”As Chair of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee, I was pleased to be part of the effort to move a reasonable, bipartisan minimum wage proposal forward. The key to any debate on the minimum wage is balancing the needs of employees with the needs of employers. If the scale tips too far in either direction, there can be severe consequences for all Pennsylvanians. The graduated increase to $9.50 over the next two years is a responsible approach that puts our state on a competitive footing with neighboring states.
“I believe most people feel comfortable in raising the minimum wage, but not to an astronomical amount that would disrupt small businesses across Pennsylvania and put untold thousands of low-skilled workers out of a job. This legislation reflects a reasonable agreement among all stakeholders, thus enabling Pennsylvania to remain competitive in the global marketplace and ensure a boost for those working at the minimum wage.”
CONTACT: Katrina Hanna (717) 787-1463