DC Council Takes Steps Towards Retail Living Wage

Could Wal-Mart pay living wages? Several members of the DC Council said "yes" on Tuesday when they introduced legislation that would require "big box" retailers operating in the District to provide all workers compensation equal to the DC Living Wage of $11.75 per hour. Councilmember Phil Mendelson drafted the bill with help from the DC Jobs with Justice coalition, including UFCW Local 400, DC ACORN, and the DC Employment Justice Center. Councilmembers Harry Thomas, Jr from Ward 5 and Marion Barry from Ward 8 joined Mendelson in co-introducing the bill. "We welcome these big box retailers," said co-introducer Barry. "I want them all in the District of Columbia. This $11.75 is not beyond the reach of these retailers." The bill was referred to the Committee on Workforce Development and Government Operations. Stay tuned to Union City for updates as the bill moves through the Council.
- reported by Mackenzie Baris