Chicago has announced a raise to its minimum wage, which now stands at $15 per hour. The state of Illinois is set to reach this benchmark in four years.

The change comes after several years of lobbying by groups like Fight for $15, during which time numerous retailers increased their wages to $15 or higher. Similarly, many institutions announced raises for essential workers due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while other businesses have been pushed to raise wages as well.

The new minimum wage increase will affect some 40,000 people, according to the city.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot is excited by the change. “This is a happy day,” she said, calling the move “one of the most critical pieces of legislation to be introduced during my administration.”