Efforts to increase the District’s minimum wage to $15 were stifled late in January, according to a report by WAMU. Superior Court Judge Maurice A. Ross ruled that when the a ballot initiative to raise the minimum wage was approved last July, two members of the three-person D.C. Board of Elections were serving past their appointed terms — nullifying their decision.
Had the initiative been approved legally, voters in November would ultimately decide whether the city’s minimum wage increased to $15. The initiative had also provided for a steady increase in wages for tipped workers.
While opponents of the $15 minimum wage generally approve Judge Ross’ decision, it serves as a setback to advocates such as Delvone Michael, executive director of DC Working Families.
“Today’s outrageous ruling asserts that we do not have the right to determine our own destiny in the District of Columbia,” Michael said in a statement. “But the fight for a fair, $15 minimum wage has only just begun.”
Other supporters of the ballot initiative told WAMU they plan to appeal the judge’s decision as early as it is possible.
“This ruling might slow us down, but it won’t stop us,” Michael added. “The right of the people to decide the kind of city we deserve will not be delayed for long.”
