Wisconsin wages stuck in the past
Anniversary of minimum wage increase highlights need for progress
MADISON – Despite Wisconsin being one of the first states to pass a statewide minimum wage standard, nearly a decade has passed since the last time the minimum wage was increased in July 2009. While states like Minnesota have taken steps to improve wage growth and prosperity by raising their minimum wage, expanding worker training and investing in community development, Wisconsin Republicans cut worker wages, increased health care costs and prioritized tax giveaways to the wealthiest 1% in the state.
“Wisconsin families are working harder than ever but can’t seem to get ahead because Republican policies continue to cut worker wages, attack worker rights and reward corporations that outsource jobs,” said Senate Democratic Leader Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse). “We’re falling further behind states like Minnesota that are investing in education, expanding access to affordable health care and raising their wages to encourage economic growth. We may have the better football team, but Minnesota is outperforming Wisconsin in terms of job creation, wage growth and economic opportunities.”
According to the Economic Policy Institute, median real hourly wages have gone up 2.4% in Minnesota, compared to 0.3% in Wisconsin. Additionally, Minnesota has had stronger overall economic growth, stronger growth per worker and stronger population growth than Wisconsin since 2010. Wisconsin Democrats have prioritized legislation to stop corporate outsourcing, raise wages, promote Wisconsin-made products and give local businesses the first crack at state contracts.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Mentioned in This Press Release
Recent Press Releases by State Sen. Jennifer Shilling
Shilling Will Not Seek Re-election
Apr 2nd, 2020 by State Sen. Jennifer ShillingAfter 20 years of service, Democratic Leader looks to chart a new course
Wages are exactly where FoxCON and Corrupt Career Politician Scott Walker want them, in the toilet. “Right to Work”= Right to Poverty. Then, cut education and keep the people dumb, desperate and broke. They make much better slaves that way!
Dump Walker 2018