Connecticut House Bill HB05947

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/21
• Refer: 1/28/21

Caption

An Act Suspending Scheduled Increases In The Minimum Wage.

Impact

If passed, HB 5947 will amend existing labor laws governing minimum wage, specifically delaying increases that were set to align with initiatives aimed at improving worker compensation. Supporters of the bill assert that until employment levels recover to pre-recession (2008) standards, maintaining the existing wage levels would help stabilize businesses that are currently facing challenges due to various economic pressures. The bill highlights the critical balancing act between improving worker pay and ensuring that businesses can survive and thrive.

Summary

House Bill 5947 proposes to suspend scheduled increases in the minimum wage in Connecticut until the state achieves an employment level that matches the level from January 1, 2008. The bill is introduced with the intent to protect small businesses during a time of economic uncertainty and potential recovery. The plan is to pause the expected increases in minimum wage, which advocates argue will provide a necessary reprieve for small enterprises struggling to adjust to current market conditions.

Contention

The discussion surrounding HB 5947 is likely to be contentious, as it pits the interests of small businesses against the higher wage expectations of workers and advocates for economic equality. Critics of the bill may argue that suspending wage increases could slow down economic recovery for workers who rely on higher wages to support their livelihoods. Proponents, however, believe that without this suspension, businesses may face increased financial strain, possibly leading to layoffs or closures, thereby exacerbating unemployment issues in the state.