Cape News

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley and Peter Welch have introduced the Higher Wages for American Workers Act, aiming to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour. The legislation also proposes that the minimum wage should adjust with inflation in future years. This move addresses concerns that the current federal minimum wage, when adjusted for inflation, is at its lowest since the 1940s.

Senator Hawley commented on the stagnation of wages for working Americans: “For decades, working Americans have seen their wages flatline. One major culprit of this is the failure of the federal minimum wage to keep up with the economic reality facing hardworking Americans every day. This bipartisan legislation would ensure that workers across America benefit from higher wages.”

Senator Welch highlighted an ongoing affordability crisis affecting families nationwide: “We’re in the midst of a severe affordability crisis, with families in red and blue states alike struggling to afford necessities like housing and groceries. A stagnant federal minimum wage only adds fuel to the fire.” He emphasized that “Every hardworking American deserves a living wage that helps put a roof over their head and food on the table–$7.25 an hour doesn’t even come close.” Senator Welch expressed pride in leading this bipartisan effort to adjust wages according to today's financial realities.

The proposed act includes provisions for increasing the federal minimum wage starting January 2026 and adjusting it annually based on inflation.