Millions of U.S. Workers Get Higher Pay as New Minimum Wage Laws Kick In

A pay raise is on the way for millions of American workers next year.

By this time next year, a total of 22 states and 66 cities and counties will have increased their minimum wage rates for hourly workers. (Photo: U.S. Department of Labor Facebook) 

On Jan. 1, minimum wage rates will climb in 19 states and 49 cities and counties across the U.S., Kenny Hannon reported for Yahoo Finance.

That’s good news for many Americans struggling to make ends meet as prices on everything from groceries to electric bills continue to climb.

“The cost of living has been top of mind for workers,” said Yannet Lathrop, senior researcher and policy analyst at the National Employment Law Project, which rounded up the minimum wage increases taking effect soon.

“Paychecks are just not covering the basic necessities for workers and families at the lower end of the pay scale.”

By this time next year, a total of 22 states and 66 cities and counties will have increased their minimum wage rates for hourly workers. Many will reach or exceed a $15 minimum wage for some or all employees, and a few will reach or exceed $17 an hour.

In Denver, for example, the hourly wage will rise to $19.29 from $18.81 — far higher than the state minimum wage of $15.16. The citywide minimum wage was $12.85 per hour in 2020.

Then the state of Colorado lifted its ban on local governments adopting higher local wages, and Denver quickly responded.