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Pataki Vetoes Minimum Wage Increase
Posted on August 02, 2004
On July 22nd, we posted the great news that the New York State Senate and Assembly voted to raise the minimum wage in the state from $5.15 to $7.15. If you've watched Struggling to Survive then you know how the nation's low minimum wage is devastating communities. The New York State legislature's decision to raise the minimum wage was good news for millions of New Yorkers trying to provide for themselves and their families.
BUT, on July 29th, Governor Pataki vetoed the decision, saying that the wage increase would put New York State businesses at a disadvantage and would move jobs to other states. Labor rights activists insist that New York State should lead the way and thereby put pressure on other states and the Federal government to move towards a living wage for all Americans.
The New York State Legislature can override Pataki's veto by a two-thirds vote for the bill in both the State Assembly and the State Legislature. Lend your voice to the fight for a living wage through $5.15 is Not Enough.
Take action for a living wage!
Read the New York Times article on Pataki's veto.
Watch Struggling to Survive.