JEFFERSON CITY – State Sen. Paul LeVota, D-Independence, has once again filed legislation calling for an increase in the minimum wage this year. Senate Bill 193 would call for Missouri’s minimum wage to be increased from the current $7.65 to $10.00 effective Jan. 1, 2016. The bill would also specify that the cost of living adjustment applies each year regardless of whether the statutory or federal minimum is used.
Last year, Sen. LeVota filed Senate Bill 686, which called for an increase in minimum wage to $9.00. Had SB 686 passed, the increase would have been effective Jan. 1, 2015.
During a time when corporations’ profits and CEOs’ pay is at their highest, increasing Missouri’s minimum wage seems like a simple change that can dramatically impact and improve the lives of Missourians across the board.
“Currently, 15 percent of Missourians fall below the poverty level. We have the opportunity here and now to improve the quality of life for millions of people and families,” said Sen. LeVota. “It is time that Missouri pave our own path and create a stronger and more prosperous future for Missouri families.”
Last year alone, 34 states considered increasing minimum wage. Thirteen states, Missouri included, raised the minimum wage in accordance with inflation. Missouri’s minimum wage increased from $7.50 to $7.65 on Jan. 1, 2015.
“I fully intend to diligently file and support legislation to increase Missouri’s minimum wage,” said Sen. LeVota. “The quality of the lives of Missourians is of great importance to me, and I will continue to work toward bettering them.”
For more information, visit Sen. LeVota’s official Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov/levota or contact his Capitol office at (573) 751-3074. |
