By AP/KWMU
Springfield, Ill. – A compromise on raising the state minimum wage surfaced today in the Illinois House.
The plan has the backing of Governor Rod Blagojevich and House Speaker Michael Madigan, who are both Chicago Democrats.
It would increase the minimum wage by $1 next summer, bringing it to $7.50 an hour.
In a concession to businesses, the new plan would not increase the minimum wage every year to match inflation.
Instead, there would be three increases of 25 cents. That would bring the minimum wage to eight dollars and 25 cents in 2010.
The compromise also calls for keeping lower wages for probationary workers and employees under 18. They could be paid 50 cents less than the standard minimum wage.
Madigan says he expects the House to vote on the plan Wednesday.