What to Know
- Gov. Phil Murphy is renewing his call for the Legislature to pass a $15 per hour minimum wage plan before the end of the year.
- NJ's minimum wage is going up a quarter per hour to $8.85 on Jan. 1, but Murphy says that is not enough to help the state's working poor
- Murphy's administration says that an increase in the minimum wage would boost productivity and grow the state's economy
Gov. Phil Murphy is renewing his call for the state's Legislature to pass a $15 per hour minimum wage plan before the end of the year.
Speaking at an event Monday, the Democrat said he's ready and waiting to sign a bill once one reaches his desk.
New Jersey's minimum wage is going up a quarter per hour to $8.85 on Jan. 1, part of a mandate under the state constitution to keep pace with inflation.
But Murphy says that's not nearly enough to help New Jersey's working poor.
“Establishing a livable wage of $15 per hour provides New Jersey’s working families with the opportunity to put food on their tables and keep the lights on in their homes,” Murphy said. “Raising the minimum wage is a crucial piece in building the foundation for a robust and fair economy. We have talked about this issue and the benefits it will bring to New Jerseyans long enough.”
In separate statements released Monday, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin and Senate President Steve Sweeney expressed support for a $15-per-hour plan, though neither pledged to reach deal before the holiday recess.
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Murphy's administration says that an increase in the minimum wage would boost productivity and grow the state's economy.
