HARRISBURG – Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) announced plans to introduce legislation that would gradually raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $11 per hour by 2028, updating the state’s minimum wage statute to reflect economic realities and better support working Pennsylvanians.
Pennsylvania’s minimum wage has remained at $7.25 per hour since 2009, matching the federal minimum and ranking among the lowest in the nation.
“This legislation is about catching up,” Laughlin said. “Most employers in Pennsylvania are already paying above minimum wage because they have to in order to attract workers. It’s time the law reflects that reality.”
Under Laughlin’s proposal, the minimum wage would increase in three phases:
- $9.00 per hour effective Jan. 1, 2026
- $10.00 per hour effective Jan. 1, 2027
- $11.00 per hour effective Jan. 1, 2028
Laughlin noted that nearly 30 states already have a higher minimum wage than the federal baseline. Nearby states such as New York, New Jersey and Maryland have implemented increases in recent years, putting Pennsylvania at a competitive disadvantage.
“Raising the minimum wage is not just about fairness, it’s also an economic necessity,” Laughlin said. “It helps reduce dependence on public assistance, boosts consumer spending and strengthens local economies.”
Laughlin emphasized the proposal is a modest, phased approach designed to help workers keep pace with the rising cost of living without placing sudden burdens on small businesses.
The legislation will be formally introduced in the coming weeks.
CONTACT: Chris Carroll, 814-453-2515