Moderate Democrats Look to Break Logjam on Minimum Wage Boost

Several Democratic moderates in the House of Representatives are trying to reach agreement with progressives on legislation to increase the minimum wage. Politico reports Rep. Tom O'Halleran (D-Ariz.) is leading an effort to make changes that could help deliver at least a half-dozen moderates onto the $15-an-hour wage bill without losing many on the left. The moderates' plan would still offer a path to doubling the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour over five years, but would come with a requirement that the Government Accountability Office conduct a study on the policy's economic effects after roughly two years. The House Education and Labor Committee would then have a chance to recommend what action House leadership should take. The amendment, which is still being drafted, has not yet been publicly released. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) said Wednesday that some changes are being considered, which he said would make sure the bill is "fair," but did not elaborate on details.