EAST ST. LOUIS - In support of the grocery store employees, gas station attendants and other minimum wage workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) applauds the July 1 increase to the state's minimum wage.

“Our low-wage essential workers deserve to see a pay increase for their labor during the COVID-19 crisis,” Belt said. “And the many Illinoisans who have been laid off during the pandemic can count on a livable wage when they return to work.” 

Senate Bill 1 increases the state's minimum wage increases to $10 per hour on July 1. The legislation requires the wage to increase by $1 on Jan. 1 each year until it reaches $15 per hour in 2025. 

To support the state’s small business community, a tax credit will be available for businesses with fewer than 50 employees to help offset the wage increase.

In response to business leaders who have used the pandemic and its associated economic downturn to try to repeal or delay the wage increase, Belt says it can’t wait.

"I promised my constituents a livable minimum wage, and I plan on keeping that promise," Belt said. "It’s been a decade since Illinois workers received a wage increase—we can’t stall any longer."