"New Year Rings in Minimum Wage Hikes Across 22 States"

As the federal minimum wage remains at $7.25, 22 states and 40 cities have increased their minimum wages as of January 1. Seven states and D.C. now have a minimum wage of at least $15, with more states on track to reach that rate. California has set industry-specific minimum wages, with fast food workers earning $20 an hour starting in April. Meanwhile, 20 states still adhere to the federal rate, and cities like New York City and Denver have set even higher local minimum wages due to inflation adjustments. Voters in various states may soon decide on further increases, highlighting a growing trend towards higher living wages across the country.