21 States Raise Minimum Wages, Adding Over $5 Billion To Paychecks This Year

Minimum-wage workers in 21 states will see higher paychecks in 2025, according to the Economic Policy Institute. The increases will impact over 9 million workers and raise wages by over $5 billion. Forty-eight cities and counties will also raise their minimum wages above state levels starting Tuesday. The federal minimum wage remains at $7.25, unchanged for 15 years, leaving many workers struggling to meet rising costs for essentials like food and housing. Women, Black, and Hispanic workers make up significant portions of those benefiting from the increases. However, experts warn these increases may not be enough to offset inflation.