SE Illinois News

A downstate lawmaker argues some of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s most impulsive actions are destined to set the state economy back for longer than anyone wants to think about.

As an example of his latest half-baked position, state Rep. Darren Bailey (R-Xenia) points to the governor’s recent pronouncement that he would not delay the minimum wage increase set to kick in on July 1 despite the financial turmoil the small businesses across the state are now experiencing stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Time and time again, he’s shown himself to act out without thinking about the impact he’s having on people,” Bailey told the SE Illinois News. "Each one of these raises has a trickle-down effect that’s going to be devastating for far more than just the employers. It’s very frustrating and reckless because it’s all about what he wants and no one else.”

“After being forced to close for nearly three months, you’ve got small businesses all over the state just fighting to keep their doors open,” Bailey added. “How much can we expect these small businesses owners to be able to take before seriously hitting their breaking point?"

As of July 1, the state’s minimum wage is set to climb to $10 an hour with another $1 increase set for Jan. 1, 2021. The initial increase comes at a time when many businesses are just now being allowed to operate with fewer restrictions after the governor’s stay-at-home order had forced any to shutter.

“We need to be doing everything we can to help small business owners get back on their feet,” Bailey added. “People are afraid, frustrated and desperate because all the governor seems to be saying is how little any of that matters to him.”