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Bill

HR 7471

Give America a Raise Act

119th Congress Introduced by Donald Norcross

Bill proposes raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25/hour to boost worker earnings and address inflation, with trade-offs between worker welfare and business operating costs.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 7471

Legislative bill overview

HR 7471, the "Give America a Raise Act," proposes to increase the federal minimum wage, though the bill text details are not publicly available in this summary. Based on the title and sponsorship by Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ), a labor-focused congressman, the bill likely seeks to raise the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour to a higher level. The bill was introduced in February 2026 and referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce for consideration.

Why is this important

The federal minimum wage has remained unchanged since 2009, while inflation has significantly eroded its purchasing power. A minimum wage increase would directly affect millions of low-wage workers and small businesses across the country, influencing labor costs, employment levels, and income inequality. This is a perennial policy debate with substantial economic and social implications.

Potential points of contention

  • Business impact: Small businesses and industries with thin profit margins (retail, hospitality, agriculture) argue higher minimum wages increase operational costs and may reduce hiring or hours; supporters counter that higher wages reduce turnover and boost consumer spending
  • Regional economic differences: A uniform federal wage may be appropriate for expensive urban areas but potentially burdensome in lower cost-of-living rural regions
  • Employment effects: Economists disagree on whether minimum wage increases reduce overall employment; some studies show minimal job loss while others project significant reductions, particularly for less-skilled workers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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