A bill moving through the Arizona Senate on Monday is attempting to alter voters’ decision to raise the minimum wage and mandated sick pay.
Sen. Sylvia Allen has proposed a freeze on the $10.50 minimum wage and wants to repeal the sick pay provision.
Conservatives like Tom Jenney with Americans for Prosperity claim voters did not fully understand the impact of passing the legislation last year.
“The problem, as with any minimum wage, is that $10.50 in a sense is too high for low skilled workers, and low income people trying to get back in the work force,” Jenney said.
But, progressive activist Josselyn Berry pointed out the bill ignores the voters’ wishes.
“Rather than protecting vulnerable people,” Berry said elected leaders “are trying to protect businesses and business owners instead of standing up for workers.”
If the bill is fully approved by both the Senate and House, it would go to the ballot for voters’ approval.
