Minimum Wage Going Up In Pennsylvania, West Virginia

On the heels of the announcement of a minimum wage increase in Michigan, two more states have taken action to raise their minimum wages above the federal rate of $5.15.

A proposal in Pennsylvania would raise the minimum wage from its current rate of $5.15 to $6.25 on July 1, 2006 and to $7.15 on July 1, 2007 . Gov. Edward G. Rendell applauded the House on its approval of the bill, which is headed next for the state Senate.

West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin III has already signed minimum wage legislation that was sent his way.

West Virginia will increase its minimum wage to $5.85 on July 1; increase it to $6.55 on July 1, 2007 ; and increase it a third time to $7.25 on July 1, 2008 .

According to West Virginia 's State Journal, the legislation affects only employers with six or more employees and that have an annual gross income $500,000.