MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR This week, senior research associate, Claire Kovach, testified before the Democratic Policy Committee on why it’s long past time we raised the minimum wage in Pennsylvania. Take a look below at her testimony about who in Pennsylvania would benefit from raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour by January 1, 2024.   Thank you for supporting our work,   Stephen Herzenberg Executive Director

The Pennsylvania and U.S. minimum wages have remained at $7.25 per hour since July of 2009. Meanwhile, every state that borders Pennsylvania has a higher minimum wage, and many in the northeast region and Maryland have reached, or are on paths to reach, $15 per hour soon. The buying power of the minimum wage has plummeted in the almost 14 years since it was last increased in Pennsylvania and is now worth less in real (inflation-adjusted) terms than at any point since 1956. Thirty states and Washington, DC, have already responded to calls to raise the minimum wage above the national level, helping struggling families pay for groceries, rent, utilities, and other necessities.

We are excited to be back and better than ever for our first in-person Pennsylvania Budget Summit since 2019! Join us for an in-depth look at Governor Shapiro’s 2023-24 budget proposal and an examination of bold policy ideas to address the long-term challenges facing the people and economy of Pennsylvania. The Summit will also feature opportunities to hear from policy experts, elected officials, and leading advocates about advocacy resources and strategies that change the narrative and direction of our state government.