Political Quotes

“I rise in strong support of an increase in the minimum wage. The 90-cent increase that is being considered today by the House of Representatives will begin to address the erosion in American workers' purchasing power. If the minimum wage is not increased, it will fall to its lowest level in 40 years. Mr. Speaker, this is essential legislation that directly impacts millions of American workers. Over 500,000 of these workers are in Illinois. Because the majority of American workers who are paid the minimum wage are over 20 years old, the increase will aid these workers in supporting themselves and their families. As we encourage people to find jobs instead of relying on public welfare, we must work to ensure that the minimum wage is a living wage. As a result of the reduction in turnover, the employer's costs of recruiting and retraining are lower. Raising the minimum wage is expected to immediately lift 300,000 families out of poverty. My colleagues who charge that a 90-cent increase is nominal and unnecessary probably are not aware that a 90-cent increase in the minimum wage could pay for 7 months of groceries, rent or mortgage payments for 4 months, or a full year of health costs. These are real expenses that working people have and that can be addressed by a minimum wage increase. Many of my colleagues also charge that the minimum wage increase will result in lost jobs. However, many economists dispute this claim.”