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 |
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Reduces child neglect |
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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.
You’re invited to the free, virtual National Prenatal-to-3 Research to Policy Summit and release of the 2021 Prenatal-to-3 State Policy Roadmap for states on Thursday, October 7, 2021. Register today!
