Minimum Wage Rally Revisited

A few more thoughts about the rally yesterday for raising the minimum wage. The Capitol Rotunda was so full during the first hour of the event it was difficult for anyone to walk through. The turnout was impressive. The steps were filled with union workers and supporters, many of whom traveled by bus for the day.

Some of us used the day to talk to legislators and staff members about the issue. I found it interesting that many Republicans are supporting this law. As several speakers pointed out, this isn't a partisan issue. If the bill gets to the Senate floor for a vote it is assured of easy passage. Why then is it bottled up? Polls show somewhere around 84% of Pennsylvanians supporting this issue. Business owners near the state's borders are at a disadvantage vis a vis our neighbors since workers can earn more money in those states.

I'd like to thank all those staffers and Representatives who took time to speak with us. Especially Todd Roup and Rep. Grucela.