Minimum wages across upstate New York are set to increase starting Saturday.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced workers outside of New York City, Long Island and Westchester County will see an increase of $1 per hour, setting the minimum wage to $14.20.
Additionally, the minimum wage for home care aides, which took effect on October first will also increase by $1 to $16.20 per hour.
"With inflation and a national labor shortage impacting our state's economy, my team is doing everything possible to put money in New Yorkers' pockets and address the rising cost of living," Gov. Hochul said. "Fair, competitive wages are essential for helping families thrive and attracting top talent to our state, and our administration remains committed to using every tool at our disposal to move New York's economy forward."
The governor's office says about 200,000 workers in upstate counties are expected to benefit from the wage increase, 44% of which are full time employees.
"By raising the minimum wage, we are helping to lift up our neighbors across New York State," New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said. "Advancing the multi-year increases has helped businesses adjust to the steady changes while providing low-wage workers the ability to better support themselves and their families."
They say of those full time workers, nearly 25% are supporting children 18 years of age and younger.