Governor Gina Raimondo has signed into law a new minimum wage; set to take effect next year. The wage will increase by sixty cents.
The increase takes effect January 2016. The hourly wage will go from $9 an hour to $9.60 an hour.
Some lawmakers including the Governor and sponsors of the legislation had called for a larger. But the business community pushed back, saying that would place too high a burden on business owners.
This will mark the fourth increase in Rhode Island’s minimum wage in as many years. Proponents say it will help spur the state’s economy. Critics say it could cause hiring slowdowns, especially for small businesses.
Raimondo plans to host a public signing ceremony for the bill.
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