1. United States
2. Conn.
3. Letter

The Raise the Wage Act of 2025 is vital legislation that would incrementally raise the federal minimum wage to $17 per hour by 2030, lifting wages for over 22 million workers across the United States. The current federal minimum of $7.25 has not increased since 2009 and leaves millions of hard-working Americans in poverty. An estimated $70 billion in additional annual wages would flow to the lowest-paid workers under this bill, with the average affected year-round worker receiving an extra $3,200. In states with lower wages and weaker labor protections, like Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, over a quarter of the workforce would directly benefit from higher incomes that better reflect the real costs of living. By gradually eliminating subminimum wages as well, this legislation ensures all workers are protected by the same fair baseline of compensation. A decent minimum wage is vital for lifting families out of poverty and closing racial and gender pay gaps that persist due to the overrepresentation of women and people of color in low-wage jobs. For the sake of economic justice and the financial security of America's working families, the Raise the Wage Act deserves full support.