Millions of American workers are receiving a pay rise as 21 states increase their minimum wage.
It’s estimated the changes will boost the incomes of an estimated 9.2 million.
The Economic Policy Institute (EPI) estimates these increases will inject an extra $5.7 billion into people’s pay packets.
California is among the states raising its minimum wage, going from $16 to $16.50 per hour. This means a full-time minimum wage worker in California could expect to earn an extra $420 per year.
Nebraska introduced the biggest increase – raising the minimum wage by $1.50 per hour, with Missouri hiking it the second most at $1.45. Alska brought in the lowest raise at $0.18, adjusting their figure for inflation only.
The EPI’s report highlighted the positive impact these minimum wage increases will have on women and ethnic minority workers, who are disproportionately represented in low-wage jobs.
“The January 1 increases show that the minimum wage continues to be a powerful tool for combating racial and gender wage disparities, supporting working families, and reducing poverty,” EPI said in its report.
Analysis has shown that women make up 60% of workers seeing a raise with these changes.
Has your state increased its minimum wage? Check out the table below to see.
