A new bill that would increase the current state minimum wage from $7.25 to $17 per hour was introduced for the first time in the S.C. State House.
Currently, the state of South Carolina has a minimum wage of $7.25, the same as the federal minimum wage. This new bill, introduced by Representative Hart, D-Richland, wouldn’t take effect until January 1, 2020, but all South Carolina employers would have to meet this new requirement if passed.
This means for some, the minimum wage could be almost three times the amount it’s been since 2008 when it was last raised $0.70 from $6.55.
After the new legislation was read, Rep. Hart asked for unanimous consent to have the bill added to the Calendar; however, Rep. Bradley, R-Beaufort, objected. The bill was then referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce, and Industry who will further discuss the bill.
According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition’s annual report, you would have to make at least $16.38 per hour and work 90 hours each week to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment in the state of South Carolina.
What are your thoughts on increasing the state’s minimum wage?