Hawaii lawmakers passed legislation that would hike the state's minimum wage to $18 an hour by 2028, which would make it the highest in the nation.
Advocates say the raise is badly needed in a state that is known for expensive housing and a high cost of living. But some businesses are warning they will have to cut staff or even close because they won't be able to afford the higher pay.
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Leading the Rest
The $18 minimum would be the highest minimum wage among the 50 states when Gov. David Ige, who has said he supports it, signs the bill into law.
Hawaii's minimum wage is currently $10.10 an hour. The bill would raise the rate in increments over the next several years, starting with $12 on Oct. 1.
The Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii said that many of its members say they will lay people off and some will close shop because of the rate hike. Critics of the increase said it would be better for Hawaii to reduce its cost of living, for example by building more affordable housing, cutting taxes and providing childcare assistance.
Pushing the Trend
More than 192,000 workers will benefit from Hawaii's wage hike, according to the National Employment Law Project. Hawaii is making history with its $18 minimum wage, but California is likely to follow the trend this November, when a similar policy goes before voters. And in New York City, workers and advocates have launched a campaign to raise the...
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