COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A new bill proposed at the Ohio Statehouse would increase the state's minimum wage to $15 per hour over the next four years.

Senate Bill 234, introduced by Sen. Kent Smith (D-Euclid) and Sen. Hearcel Craig (D-Columbus), would gradually phase in the minimum wage increase between 2026 and 2029. The legislation was co-sponsored by five other lawmakers -- all Democrats.

The state's minimum wage would increase to $12 per hour beginning Jan. 1 and would increase by $1 each year, reaching $15 per hour on Jan. 1, 2029. Starting on Sept. 30, 2029, the director of commerce would adjust the rate annually, which would take effect the following Jan. 1.

The bill would also eliminate the tipped employee minimum wage, requiring all workers to earn the same minimum wage.

"This

See Full Page