At the beginning of this month minimum wage increased by a dollar per hour in Chicago and throughout Illinois.  Employers who have over 21 workers will have to pay them at least $14; smaller businesses will be increased to $13.50. Per month on average this will translate into an additional $120 for a monthly salary.

According to Secretary Treasurer for the Chicago Federation of Labor, Don Villar:

“This is a great step for workers, but more needs to be done to life up the workers in Chicago and across the state of Illinois.”

However, there is still a long way to go.  The Chicago Federation of Labor has pointed out that this still won’t be enough.  Governor J. B. Pritzker said:

“It’s important for us to stand up for people who are working class, people who cannot otherwise afford to maintain their home. We do not want people to become homeless in this difficult crisis.”