DOVER, Del. (AP) - The state House is poised to vote on a bill raising Delaware's minimum wage by a dollar over the next two years.
Democrats propose raising the current hourly wage from $7.25 to $7.75 on June 1, and to $8.25 on June 1, 2015.
Supporters say the higher wage will stimulate the economy and help low-wage families make ends meet. Opponents argue it will lead to higher prices that will negatively affect low-wage earners and result in fewer hires.
Minority Republicans have proposed delaying the start of the increases by six months.
Another GOP amendment would allow employers to pay 75 percent of the state-mandated minimum wage to employees under 18, employees during their first 180 days on the job, and to seasonal employees.
