CT lawmakers pass $10.10 state minimum wage

[NutmegYankee]

HARTFORD, CT (WFSB/AP) -

Connecticut state lawmakers have become the first in the country to pass legislation increasing the state's minimum wage to $10.10 an hour by 2017, the same rate President Barack Obama wants for the federal minimum wage.

Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy applauded the move, saying he'll sign it Thursday in New Britain, where Obama appeared to press for a $10.10 national wage.

"I am proud that Connecticut is once again a leader on an issue of national importance. Increasing the minimum wage is not just good for workers, it's also good for business," said Malloy in a statement Wednesday.

In back-to-back votes Wednesday, the bill passed the House of Representatives, 87-54; and the Senate, 21-14. http://www.wfsb.com/story/25074569/conn-lawmakers-expected-to-vote-on-minimum-wage

First state to pass a $10.10 minimum wage!