Immigration bill would leave minimum wage Dreamers at risk

The Math

• Federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, as it has been since 2009. It currently is the applicable rate in 21 U.S. states.
• Someone earning $7.25 per hour who works 40 hours per week for 52 weeks would earn $15,080 in a year. This assumes that the person works all federal and state holidays.
• The 2018 federal poverty level for an individual is $12,140 per year.
• 125% of the federal poverty rate would be $15,075 per year.
• Bottom line: The bill establishes just a five dollar buffer between what such an individual would earn and being found in criminal violation of immigration law.

Kathryn Rexrode, communications director for the House Judiciary Committee, did not return requests for comment.