Minimum Wage Increase a ‘Top Priority’ for Shapiro, Democrats

Following Democrats' gains in the 2026 General Election, Gov. Josh Shapiro and Democratic legislative leaders indicated that raising Pennsylvania's minimum wage will be among their top priorities when the General Assembly reconvenes in January.

During a post-election press conference on Wednesday, Shapiro said a minimum wage increase would be the first bill he signs during his second term, renewing an effort that failed to generate necessary support under divided government. Pennsylvania's minimum wage has remained at the federal rate of $7.25 per hour since 2009. The Democratic-controlled House has previously passed legislation that would gradually increase the minimum wage to $15 per hour and index future increases to inflation, but those proposals failed to advance in the Republican-led Senate.

The PA Chamber has previously warned that substantial increases in the minimum wage could lead to reduced employment opportunities, fewer hours for workers, and higher operating costs, particularly for small businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Alex Halper, the PA Chamber’s senior vice president for government affairs told the Inquirer last week that policymakers should pursue approaches that protect businesses’ ability to grow, create jobs, and compete for workers. Halper also said the chamber is “willing to work on a minimum wage bill that at least mitigates negative impacts on small businesses, nonprofits, and job opportunities.”