State & Local Government Policy, Business and Technology

Seattle mayor: $15 minimum wage raises incomes

USA Today: Seattle’s $15 minimum wage has been in the news lately, with some questioning its benefits. As the mayor who signed the ordinance in 2014, I know how important it has been for workers in this city. By raising the minimum wage, we raised incomes for our lowest paid workers and our economy continues to accelerate.

Three years ago, Seattle became the first major city to pass a $15 minimum wage. While not a silver bullet to address inequality, the minimum wage is a critical tool benefiting low-wage workers and our economy. Putting more money in workers’ pockets leads to more spending at local businesses, growing our economy.

We are also taking other steps, such as building more affordable housing, expanding transit and investing in preschool, to address inequities.

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