BREAKING

U.S. HOUSE PASSES THE RAISE THE WAGE ACT

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the Raise the Wage Act of 2019, H.R. 582, which would gradually increase the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 per hour by 2025. This historic vote is proof  that our movements wield power in governance, and that a Democratic majority in Congress can advance a policy agenda that puts the needs of the multiracial working class first. 

This win belongs to labor and community groups, including members of the People's Action family. The Fight for $15 only reached the halls of Congress because of courageous, unapologetic, local grassroots campaigning in places like SeaTac, Washington, New York City, and San Francisco where working-class people rose up and demanded fair compensation for our labor. 

This win also belongs also to the women of color-led organizing efforts that ensured H.R. 582 would eliminate the tipped minimum wage. The tipped minimum wage is part of a tiered system that locks in sub-minimum wages for service industry workers, and allows racism and sexism to play out in their paychecks. Getting rid of the tipped minimum wage and replacing it with one fair wage for all will be a huge step forward in ensuring economic stability and workplace safety for folks working in the service industry. 

Unfortunately, the Raise the Wage Act, like every other significant passed by the House this Congress, is unlikely to get a vote in the Republican-controlled Senate. However, its passage shows Democrats have agreed on a $15/hour wage policy that could become law if the left takes back power in the White House and the Senate in upcoming elections.

To those among us who have fought hard for the Raise the Wage Act and the many fights for $15 that preceded it: thank you, we see you, and we honor your leadership.

Your work has brought and will continue to bring millions of people and families renewed power in our economy. 

In solidarity,

Leigh Friedman

on behalf of the People's Action team