Media Center

Today Congressman David Scott (D-GA) released the following statement on the pending House vote on the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007 (H.R. 2), which is cosponsored by Congressman Scott:

“It is long overdue for Congress to take action on raising the minimum wage,” Congressman Scott said. “In Georgia and throughout the country, millions of hard-working American families are struggling to meet rising health insurance, gas, home heating, and college tuition costs while the minimum wage hasn’t been increased in nine years, the longest period since its creation in 1938.”

“Raising the minimum wage will put money in the hands of people who need it and help create a stronger middle class in America. In Georgia, nearly 526,000 workers and their families will benefit from a minimum wage increase.”

H.R. 2 will increase the minimum wage from $5.15 to $7.25 an hour over two years. The bill will increase the minimum wage to $5.85 sixty days after enactment; to $6.55 a year later; and to $7.25 another year later.

“I hope the Senate will follow the House and take swift action to increase the minimum wage immediately. The President has said he supports a minimum wage increase and will sign it into law. America’s working families shouldn’t have to wait any longer.”

H.R. 2 will be brought up for a vote on the House Floor later today. Congressman Scott was an original cosponsor when the bipartisan bill was introduced last week.