Washington, D.C. — Center for American Progress President Neera Tanden released the following statement regarding Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti’s plan to raise the minimum wage to $13.25 per hour over the course of three years:
“This is a watershed moment for the workers and families of Los Angeles. Business, community, and labor leaders recognize the economy grows from the middle-out and Mayor Eric Garcetti’s plan to raise the minimum wage will help spur economic growth by raising wages, and help communities thrive. While incomes for the top one percent have risen sharply in recent years, middle- and low-income workers have seen their wages remain stagnant. Cities like Los Angeles are taking action where Congress is failing.
“When workers earn a fair wage for hard work, they reinvest it in their communities, local businesses, and pay local taxes. That is why cities and states that have raised their minimum wages are creating jobs and growing their economies. With today’s announcement, Los Angeles can take advantage of the economic opportunity in workers earning a fair wage. I applaud Mayor Garcetti and the leaders of Los Angeles for helping ensure Angelenos who work won’t live in poverty.”
For more information or to speak to an expert on this topic, contact Allison Preiss at [email protected] or 202.478-6331.