Minnesota YMCA Youth in Government
Model Legislature
BILL #: 1213
Download PDFBE IT ENACTED BY THE YOUTH LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA YOUTH LEGISLATURE –
An act to
Raise the minimum wage in Minnesota to $18
SECTION I - PURPOSE
The purpose of this bill is to ensure people can afford food and make rent on time, and to reduce the number of people
heading into poverty. According to the St. Paul Journal, while Minnesota has a low poverty rate compared to other
states, it is rising drastically right now. This affects one in 11 adults in Minnesota and 1 in 9 children.
SECTION II - JUSTIFICATION
Homelessness is still a big problem in Minnesota, and the main reason for this is the lack of income in these
communities. This contributor is because the minimum wage in Minnesota is super low, and people cannot get the money
they need right now.
SECTION III - DEFINITIONS
Minimum wage - the lowest wage permitted by law or by a special agreement
Company - a commercial business that sells products
SECTION IV - FUNDING
Additional funding will be needed for this bill, as it will be a law rather than a government-required program, and
nothing will be taken out of citizens' pockets. This will apply to all companies with a store in Minnesota or that do
business here.
SECTION V – PENALTIES/ENFORCEMENT
Thus, if any entity or company were to violate this law, it would be subject to a $5,000 fine and a week of double pay
for all its employees.
SECTION VI – EFFECTIVE DATE
This will take effect on January 1, 2027