Bresnahan Cosponsors Fair Wage Act for Labor Day
WASHINGTON, DC: Today, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) announced he cosponsored the Fair Wage Act, to raise the minimum wage to match the cost-of-living. This bipartisan legislation was first introduced by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03). Rep. Bresnahan is the first cosponsor of the Fair Wage Act.
“Every Pennsylvanian who works hard deserves a fair wage that rewards hard work and keeps up with the cost of living,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “No one working full-time should struggle to put food on the table or keep a roof over their head. Raising the minimum wage is about restoring fairness, rewarding hard work, and ensuring every worker in our communities can provide for their family. I am proud to stand firmly with NEPA workers as the first cosponsor of this legislation, and I will continue to support policies that reward hard work and build a stronger middle class.”
The Fair Wage Act would increase the minimum wage for the first time in 16 years and would adjust over time for inflation.
“As we mark Labor Day, we are reminded of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s proud history of hardworking men and women whose grit built our communities,” continued Rep. Bresnahan. “From the coal mines and factories to today’s small businesses and service industries, our region has always been powered by blue-collar workers. Raising the minimum wage honors that legacy by ensuring that every worker earns a fair day’s pay for a hard day’s work, and that the next generation can thrive right here at home.”
“Across America, families are working hard, playing by the rules, and still falling behind. That is proof our federal minimum wage system is broken. A fair wage in Pennsylvania should not be measured against standards built for New York City or rural Arkansas,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “The Fair Wage Act is a commonsense, bipartisan fix. It respects regional differences, protects small businesses, and—above all—empowers working families to build a better life. I’m proud to lead this effort, and grateful to my friend and neighbor Congressman Bresnahan for joining the fight to ensure every Pennsylvanian—and every American—earns the fair pay they deserve.”
Specifically, the Fair Wage Act:
Indexes the federal minimum wage to the cost of living in each region using Bureau of Labor Statistics and Bureau of Economic Analysis data.
Gradually phases in a minimum wage floor based on 50% of the national average hourly wage.
Sets fair wage baselines for tipped workers (30% of regional minimum) and for employees 18 and under (two-thirds of the regional minimum).
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