The minimum wage earners in Connecticut are now earning $13 an hour. The minimum wage has been a point of discussion in Connecticut since 2019 when Governor Ned Lamont championed a new law to increase the minimum wage 5 times over the next 5 years; he proclaimed, “Nobody working a full-time job should live in poverty.”

This aims to give opportunities to help hardworking individuals achieve financial security. Families that belong to the lowest income bracket struggle to make ends meet. Most families living paycheck to paycheck are one unexpected expense away from financial disaster.

Raising the minimum wage would allow them to feel more financially stable, as well as be rewarded for their efforts. The extra boost in finances may ultimately return to the local economy, potentially bolstering local communities’ finances.

Conversely, those in opposition to the act express various concerns, including how the boost in the minimum wage may affect local businesses’ financial security. Can local businesses handle the increase in funds? Many fear an increase in the minimum wage may result in more positions being cut, leading to further unemployment, job insecurity, and increased product/service prices.

The question for debate is, should Connecticut be increasing its minimum wage?