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DCED cites 869,900 workers affected by proposed $15 minimum wage; lawmakers debate phase-in and small-business protections
Summary
Secretary Seager told the committee that 2023 data show 869,900 Pennsylvania workers earn between $7.25 and $15 and could be affected by a proposed $15 minimum wage; he said 68% are age 20 or older and acknowledged legislative interest in phased approaches and protections for small businesses.
Minimum wage drew sustained questioning at the Appropriations hearing.
Representative Flood said small businesses were concerned that an immediate jump to $15 an hour could harm employers that typically employ 5— individuals. Secretary Seager cited 2023 Department of Labor data and said "Workers between $7.25 and $15... 869,900 as of 2023" would be affected if the governor—s proposal is enacted.
Seager noted 68% of affected workers are age 20 or older and said the administration views the $15 proposal as part of a broader economic strategy to raise wages and spur local economic growth. He also said conversations about phasing or other approaches were possible as the budget process proceeds, but the governor's proposal as introduced is a $15 minimum.
Lawmakers pressed for revenue and employment-impact modeling; Seager deferred detailed modeling questions to the Department of Revenue and encouraged committee members to consult revenue analysts for job-loss or revenue estimates.
Next steps: discussion of potential amendments and modeling will continue in the legislature and DCED indicated teams would coordinate with Revenue to provide further detail.
