Labor unions and Democrat lawmakers rallied in Harrisburg on Monday in support of a $15 minimum wage bill, reigniting a battle that’s raged for 15 consecutive years. Pennsylvania’s minimum wage remains at $7.25 an hour—the same as the federal rate—and lower than all surrounding states.
Rep. Roni Green, D-Philadelphia, introduced House Bill 1150, which would gradually raise the state’s minimum wage to $15 by 2026 and index it to inflation. The bill would also allow municipalities to set higher local minimums and close the tipped wage loophole, which currently lets employers pay as little as $2.83 per hour.
Supporters argue that more than 1.3 million Pennsylvanians, including school support staff, home care workers, and custodians, would benefit from the change. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis and Sen. Christine Tartaglione, both Democrats from Philadelphia, joined the rally and condemned lawmakers who continue to block wage increases while accepting raises themselves.
“For 19 years, Pennsylvania workers have been told to wait,” said Tartaglione. “It’s been 6,876 days. That’s a disgrace.”
Opponents, primarily Republicans, warn that raising the wage would harm small businesses, many of which are still recovering from COVID-era economic challenges. They point out that few workers actually earn the minimum wage, with many earning tips or higher hourly pay already.
However, real-world testimonies painted a different picture. Stephanie Gibson, a Philadelphia security guard, described working two jobs at $16.25 per hour and still struggling to feed her family and pay rent. “Enough is enough,” she said.
Union leaders called on lawmakers to live on $15,000 a year—the annual salary equivalent of minimum wage—if they continue to oppose an increase. “Let’s see how they do,” said UFCW 1776 President Wendell Young.
Activists also brought props, including a giant inflatable “fat cat” named Mr. Rigs, symbolizing wealthy elites who benefit from a rigged system while the working class struggles.
The movement for a wage increase continues to gain steam, not just in Pennsylvania but nationally. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., has proposed raising the federal minimum wage to $17 an hour by 2030.
