On Monday, John Carney signed a bill on Monday morning that will raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025.
The current minimum wage is $9.25 an hour.
The ceremony was attended by legislators, union leaders, and advocates who pushed for Senate Bill 15.
“Delawareans who go to work full time shouldn’t be living in poverty,” said Carney. “I am proud to sign Senate Bill 15 today, gradually increasing the minimum wage to $15. Thank you to Senator Walsh and Representative Brady for their leadership, other members of the General Assembly, union advocates, and everyone else striving to make Delaware the best place to live, work and raise a family.”
Opponents of the higher wage argued that the bill would put too much of a burden on small businesses recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic and reduce the number of available jobs.
The minimum wage passed on a party-line vote in a General Assembly where Democrats now hold a commanding majority.
Advocates of the higher minimum wage said the bill would lift some individuals and families out of poverty.
Despite many employers already paying $15 an hour minimum wage, numerous businesses are struggling to fill staff positions.
Suspected reasons include a temporary $300 a week unemployment payment, child care issues, and fears about returning to work.
Delaware will join New Jersey and Maryland, both on the path to the $15 an hour minimum wage when the bill is signed.
The minimum wage in Pennsylvania remains at $7.25 an hour.
