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New Jersey State AFL-CIO cheers increase in minimum wage to $12

The New Year brings with it a $1-an-hour increase for low-income workers, as New Jersey law today increases the state’s minimum wage to $12.

The New Jersey State AFL-CIO again recognizes the efforts of Gov. Phil Murphy and the state Legislature for passing the “road to a $15 minimum wage” law in 2019.

“Our Labor Movement worked closely with the governor and lawmakers to get New Jersey workers a decent minimum wage and put the state on a clear path to $15,” Charles Wowkanech, President of the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, said. “Minimum-wage workers desperately need this increase during these harsh economic conditions.”

Tens of thousands of hardworking New Jerseyans will benefit from today’s boost, which comes as part of a five-year plan to reach a $15 wage that became law in 2019 after tireless advocacy by the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, affiliated unions and allies. The first raise, on July 1, 2019, brought the minimum wage to $10. Each Jan. 1 since then adds $1 an hour until the $15 wage takes effect on Jan. 1, 2024.

“In this unprecedented downturn caused by the coronavirus,” President Wowkanech said, “our lowest-paid workers need – and deserve – this increase. Many of them are doing essential work in the face of the deadly pandemic. A $12-an-hour wage, on the way to $15, is one way to say thanks.”