A state minimum wage of at least $10 per hour is one of the five most effective policies a state can A state minimum wage of at least $10.00 per hour is one of the five most effective policies a state can implement to ensure children get off to a healthy start and thrive, and that promote greater equity in child wellbeing.
The federal minimum wage requires that most hourly workers be paid at least $7.25, but states can establish higher wage thresholds.
The most rigorous research studies show that an increase in the minimum wage:
| IMPACT OF STATE MINIMUM WAGE | EVIDENCE OF IMPACT |
Increases earnings |
|
Has no adverse effects on employment |
|
Reduces poverty rates among children |
|
Improves birth outcomes |
|
Reduces child neglect |
|
Visit the Clearinghouse for the comprehensive evidence review on State Minimum Wage.
The prenatal period to age 3 is the most sensitive and rapid period of growth for the brain and body. State policy choices have a substantial impact on the wellbeing of infants, toddlers, and their parents, and on promoting equity among children. See the Prenatal-to-3 State Policy Roadmap for more information on the most effective policies and strategies states can implement to help children thrive from the start.
Have questions? Please contact us.
