Jan 10, 2007- Kaptur Adds Her Support to House Bill To Raise the Federal Minimum Wage

Late this afternoon, the House voted 315-116 in favor of the bill.Approximately 13 million Americans would enjoy a higher standard of living andincreased purchasing power as a result of raising the minimum wage.

"Raising the minimum wage gives value again to the ethic of work itself,"Congresswoman Kaptur said. "This is a working women's issue and also achildren's issue."

In comments on the House floor, Kaptur framed the issue as one of value.

"What about someone who bathes and cares for elderly patients? Are theyworth seven dollars and twenty five cents an hour? How about the people whoclean the bathrooms at the political conventions? Is their work worth sevendollars and twenty five cents an hour? What about the people who care forthree-year-olds at child care centers across our country? What about people whocarry heavy trayloads of dishes and feed people in our restaurants? Are theyworth seven dollars and twenty five cents an hour?"

The legislation now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Last November, Ohiovoters overwhelmingly approved an increase in the state minimum wage to $6.85an hour, effective Jan. 1, 2007.