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Could New York Be on the Verge of Approving a $15/Hour Minimum Wage Hike?


Readers might remember that New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has aggressively advocated for a $15/hour minimum wage rate for workers across the state.  (Governor Cuomo Begins Bus Tour Across New York to Push for $15/Hour).  This follows on the heals of SUNY workers getting a $15/hour minimum wage hike along with New York City fast food workers getting the same $15/hour rate.  

However, to make a $15/hour wage rate a reality across the state, the New York legislature has to approve the bill that Governor Cuomo has pushed.  Apparently, New York Republican Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan has talked with Governor Cuomo about a compromise on the proposed $15/hour minimum wage legislation.  As a trade off, Governor Cuomo would stay on the sidelines for an upcoming special election to replace a New York state senator, in return for the $15/hour minimum wage legislation getting passed.  

While much of this is tentative (and nothing has officially been announced), it would be an about turn for Republicans, if true.  However, in a liberal state like New York with an Assembly that is controlled by Democrats and a Senate that is almost an even split...it is likely only a matter of time until Democrats get the numbers on their side to pass this bill.


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