Texas Senate Bill SJR22

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an increased minimum wage.

Impact

The implementation of SJR22 would directly affect labor laws in Texas by establishing a baseline wage that could significantly benefit low-income workers. Advocates argue this amendment would help to improve the living standards for many employees struggling to make ends meet, especially in an economic environment with rising costs of living. However, the bill does exempt certain individual categories and employers based on existing labor code regulations, sparking discussions about its comprehensiveness and enforcement.

Summary

SJR22 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish an increased minimum wage in Texas. The resolution mandates that employers pay their employees no less than the greater of $10.10 per hour or the federal minimum wage as set by the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. This change seeks to formally embed the minimum wage requirement within the Texas Constitution, thereby providing it with stronger legal protection against possible future legislative changes that could reduce wage levels.

Contention

Debate surrounding SJR22 is likely to center around differing viewpoints on the implications of increasing the minimum wage. Proponents assert that a higher minimum wage is essential for addressing income inequality and ensuring all Texans can afford basic necessities. Conversely, critics argue that mandating a wage increase may lead to job losses, particularly in small businesses that may struggle to absorb higher labor costs. This potential conflict highlights divisions in perspectives about economic growth versus worker compensation and equity.