NEW JERSEY – As of Monday, August 23, the minimum wage for municipal employees in Jersey City, New Jersey, was raised from $ 15 to $ 17 per hour, announced the mayor of this city, Steven Fulop.
In 2016, Jersey City was the first New Jersey municipality to raise its minimum wage to $ 15, which was eventually followed by other municipalities and ultimately by the State.
“By prioritizing workers and families most affected by the pandemic, we are raising the minimum wage not only to show our appreciation to our dedicated employees, but I hope our efforts will also encourage other leaders at all levels of government to make the same considerations for their low-wage workforce, ”said Mayor Fulop. “We are raising the salaries of hundreds of residents and community members who work hard to provide their families with a financial boost during these uncertain times and for future planning.”
Nationally, essential and low-wage workers suffer the most financially as a result of the COVID-19 crisis, particularly minority populations. The minimum wage increase will benefit 400 Jersey City employees, including parking and crossing guards.
Increasing wages among workers have been shown to drive local economic growth, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the community and ultimately saving taxpayer dollars. More than 95% of the benefited employees are residents of the Jersey City community. Increasing the minimum wage also increases employee retention, improving efficiency and maintaining higher levels of public services.
Just four months after the Fulop administration, in 2013, Jersey City became the first in New Jersey to guarantee sick days, an effort led by Mayor Fulop to protect the health of working families. These efforts were further developed in 2015 when the mayor enacted a wage theft prevention ordinance. Just a year later, Mayor Fulop raised the minimum wage to $ 15 an hour in 2016, a move that doubled the previous rate.
“It is my sincere hope that this salary increase will provide financial relief for many Jersey City families, and we look forward to continuing our work together creating the best possible work environment,” concluded Mayor Fulop.
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