- Archives

Sen. Olga Mendez, a Democrat-turned-Republican who is facing an uphill re-election bid on Nov. 2 in a heavily Democratic district, said she was told the Senate will bring a minimum wage increase to the floor when it next reconvenes, on Nov. 18. The Republican Senate approved the minimum-wage bill on July 21 by a 51-7 vote, but it was subsequently vetoed by Pataki. The Republican governor said the measure, which would increase the current $5.15 hourly minimum wage to $7.15 in three steps by Jan. 1, 2007, would put New York businesses at a "distinct competitive disadvantage" with businesses in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The minimum wage is remaining at $5.15 in those states. The Democrat dominated state Assembly voted in August to override Pataki's veto. [more]