© 2024 WSIU Public Broadcasting
WSIU Public Broadcasting
Member-Supported Public Media from Southern Illinois University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

St Senate Considers Changing Minimum Wage

The Illinois Senate is considering a change to the state's minimum wage law.

Illinois' minimum wage was a $1.68 an hour in 1968.  Although it's $8.25 an hour now, it's worth less.  A measure approved by a Senate committee Wednesday would increase the minimum hourly wage to a level where it would regain its buying power.  The bill calls for 50 cent annual increases in the minimum wage until it hits $10.55.  At that point, it would stay indexed to inflation.  Kelly Wingard says it's a change that could force her out of business. Wingard and her husband opened Wildflower Artisan Bakery and Cafe in Decatur in 2010.  She says she can't absorb any additional payroll costs, without passing the increases on to her customers - which she fears would chase them away: "We already face pressures from the increasing costs of coffee, chocolate, sugar, packaging, electricity, delivery fees, insurance, advertising and on and on."
 
But supporters say a minimum wage hike would increase families' buying power, and that would help the state's economy. Although the measure advanced to the Senate floor, its sponsor says she'll continue negotiations on the bill.

As a WSIU donor, you don’t simply watch or listen to public media programs, you are a partner. By making a gift, you help WSIU produce, purchase, and broadcast programs you care about and enjoy – every day of the year.