Advocates say the change gives about 88,000 workers a livable wage and it comes at a time when everyone is feeling the pinch from inflation.
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Hawaii’s new minimum wage law takes effect this Saturday.
Those earning the current $10.10 an hour should see a bump in their paycheck soon — up to $12 an hour.
Advocates said the change gives about 88,000 workers a livable wage, and it comes at a time when everyone is feeling the pinch from inflation.
Someone working 40 hours a week at minimum wage could get about $300 more a month under the new law.
Bartender Aaron Miyahira said it’s a welcome cushion to help stretch his family’s budget.
“We’re getting like $6 for for milk now. And it’s a little rough. Now, we just got to work a little harder,” he said. “The minimum wage definitely does help a little bit, but it’s more so with this industry. I would say the tips are more impactful on my paychecks.”
Miyahira works at Tiki’s Grill and Bar, which has served customers in Waikiki for 20 years.
For many restaurants, this new cost of labor means changes to their menus.
“With freight and fuel charges going up, we’re gonna see menu prices increasing as well throughout the state,” said Tiki’s partner Michael Miller. “It’s a delicate balancing act. I think all restaurants or businesses throughout the state are going to have to be making pricing adjustments to see where that sweet spot is to still keep in business yet take care of their employees.”
Miller is a...
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