Michigan's minimum wage just went up
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Workers in Michigan and 18 other states got a raise when minimum wage increases took effect on New Year's Day.
Why it matters: Beyond those earning minimum wage, these increases often push employers to raise salaries for workers higher up on the income ladder.
The big picture: More than 8.3 million workers across the country saw their pay go up on Jan. 1. That included both those getting a direct increase and others indirectly affected when companies adjust wage ladders, according to an estimate from the progressive Economic Policy Institute.
Zoom in: Michigan's minimum wage rose to $13.73 per hour on Jan. 1, up from $12.48 last year.
- The rate jumps to $15 at the start of 2027.
Stunning stat: For the first time, there are more workers in states with a minimum wage of $15 an hour or higher than those with the federal minimum of $7.25.
Between the lines: More than a decade ago, labor advocates' fight for a $15 an hour wage seemed radical — not so much anymore.
Yes, but: 20 states, many in the South, still use the federal rate, which has been stuck at $7.25 an hour since 2009.