Illinois lawmakers are considering a plan to increase the minimum wage and let it rise automatically in the future.
The state Senate's Executive Committee approved the plan 9-5 Wednesday. But even the sponsor says more work is needed before it could become law.
The current minimum wage in Illinois is $8.25. The legislation would increase that by about 50 cents a year until it reaches $10.55. That matches the buying power of the minimum wage back in 1968, when it was just $1.60.
After that, it would go up by the cost of inflation each year.
Democratic Sen. Kimberly Lightford says her proposal is still being negotiated.
Opponents say the increase would force businesses to cut hours and employees.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
