In a recent session, the Albuquerque City Council approved a measure to incrementally raise the city’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2029. The decision came after a contentious meeting that saw passionate arguments from both supporters and opponents.
The approved plan outlines a gradual increase: the minimum wage will rise to $13 in 2027, $14 in 2028, and finally reach $15 in 2029. Additionally, the tipped minimum wage will adjust to 55.5% of the base minimum wage in 2027, 52% in 2028, and 50% in 2029. The Council also mandated that city employees earning $80,000 or less receive annual pay increases matching the percentage increase in the minimum wage.
Supporters of the wage hike argue that it is necessary to help workers keep pace with rising living costs. Opponents, including local small-business owners and industry representatives, express concerns that the increase could strain businesses and lead to higher prices for consumers.
The meeting was marked by intense public comment, with approximately 70 individuals addressing the Council. The final vote was 5-4 in favor of the wage increase.