July 1, 2013
By Neal Tepel
The D.C. Council gave its initial approval to The Large Retailer Accountability Act, that would raise the minimum wage of workers at large retail stores from the D.C.’s current minimum of $8.25 an hour to $12.50. Thanks to political action of the UFCW and allies, this significant upgrade would improve the quality of life for many employees.
This legislation will ensure that the jobs at D.C.’s large retailers and “big box” stores will provide a decent wage that allow employees to provide for themselves and their families. The Large Retailer Accountability Act would also mean that new jobs at 6 planned Walmart’s coming to the District in the next few years will be better for Walmart associates than typically seen in their thousands of other locations across the country.
“The District government has an obligation not just to encourage the development and growth of jobs, but to encourage the development and growth of quality jobs,” said D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson.
The bill now needs to pass a second vote at the Council’s July 10 legislative session.
