New York CNN —
Congress last raised the federal minimum wage in July 2007, which increased it to $7.25 by July 2009. Since then, the minimum wage remains stagnant, marking the longest period without an increase since 1938.
Former President Donald Trump’s recent visit to a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania drew attention to the issue. Vice President Kamala Harris criticized Trump for not providing a clear stance on raising the minimum wage. Despite the lack of direction, Harris advocates for a higher minimum wage, emphasizing the current $7.25 wage equates to poverty wages.
While efforts to raise the federal minimum wage have been met with resistance, individual states have taken action. Currently, 30 states have set higher minimum wage rates than the federal requirement. However, the disparity in wages across states underscores the urgent need for a uniform approach to ensure fair compensation for all workers.
Research suggests that increasing the federal minimum wage, potentially to $17 per hour, could benefit workers without significant adverse effects on job availability or prices.