The House Democratic Policy Committee issued a call to action this week during a hearing on raising the minimum wage at SEIU Local 668 in Philadelphia.

“Increasing the minimum wage will reduce poverty, promote economic growth, and provide a sense of financial security to workers,” said Rep. Roni Green, D-Philadelphia. She noted that the current minimum wage, $7.25 per hour, was established in 2009 following efforts by the labor movement.

Each of the states bordering Pennsylvania has a higher rate, while the commonwealth still mirrors the federal minimum. This makes Pennsylvania among the 20 states tied for the lowest minimum wage in the country.

Federal data shows just under 64,000 residents make $7.25 or less an hour and nearly three-quarters of those include tipped workers. Another 418,000 make up to $12 an hour, and 510,000 earn between $12 and $15 per hour.

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