Simon Backing Minimum Wage Hike

Legislation raising wages passes out of Senate committee

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Illinois Lt. Governor Sheila Simon issued the following statement supporting legislation sponsored by Sen. Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) to raise the minimum wage in Illinois. Senate Bill 68 passed out of the Senate Executive committee on Thursday.

“A hard day’s work deserves a fair minimum wage. This legislation is a strong step in the right direction.

“Too many Illinoisans work too hard for too little. By raising the minimum wage to $10.65 over the next three years we can help the many women and men who are doing some of our hardest jobs. This is an important issue being championed by President Obama and Gov. Quinn for good reason. A gradual minimum wage increase can go a long way toward helping Illinois families enter the middle class.

“I applaud the efforts of Sen. Lightford and committee to pass this much-needed measure. I look forward to working with both chambers to get this passed and to the governor’s desk this year.”