MINIMUM WAGE BILL SIGNED!

On Sunday, July 9, 2006, Gov. Ed Rendell signed legislation that will increase Pennsylvania's minimum wage to $6.25 an hour on January 1, and then to $7.15 an hour on July 1, 2007. 

By invitation from the Governor's Office, Interim Director Rev. Arnold L. Tiemeyer, representing LAMPa,  attended the signing at Sharon Baptist Church in Philadelphia.  The governor and other speakers noted that the raising of the minimum wage was a moral issue.  In his remarks, Gov. Rendell, noted the work that had been completed by the Labor Unions and the Faith Communities, specifically mentioning the Lutheran effort.

We can take pleasure in this decision.  According to the PA Department of Labor and Industry, 423,000 workers will have their wages raised.  It is interesting that more workers in rural areas will benefit from this decision than those living in the cities.

Thanks to all who actively supported the increase and made contacts, particularly those contacts made with leadership in the Senate at key times!