Phoenix To Vote On $15 Minimum Hiring Wage For City Workers

Published: Tuesday, April 2, 2019 - 5:05am
Updated: Tuesday, April 2, 2019 - 10:03am

Some Phoenix city employees could soon get bigger paychecks. The city is considering a minimum hiring wage for its full-time workers.

The council is expected to vote on the proposal Wednesday. If approved, it would establish a minimum hiring rate of $15 per hour for all full-time city employees.

According to a city council report, “The City Council, city management and labor organizations are committed to ensuring employees earn a livable rate of pay.”

About 150 current employees would see their pay raised. It’s estimated to cost the city $525,000 annually. The Budget and Research Department says the increase can be covered by using savings from unanticipated vacancies. If approved, the established minimum rate will take effect the first full pay period of May 2019.

In 2016, Arizona voters approved a statewide minimum wage hike. The current rate is $11 per hour and will increase to $12 per hour in 2020.

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