Governor Quinn Statement on House Passage of Minimum Wage Referendum

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Pat Quinn today released the following statement regarding Illinois House passage of House Bill 3814 - an advisory referendum to ask voters if they support increasing the state's minimum wage to $10 an hour. The bill is sponsored by House Speaker Michael Madigan and now goes to the Illinois Senate. Governor Quinn is committed to raising the minimum wage in 2014.

"Democracy is about having a voice. I'm glad that voters will have a chance to make their voices heard on this important issue that will benefit hundreds of thousands of working people across Illinois.

"We must build an economy that works for everyone. Raising the minimum wage will support hardworking men and women across our state and boost Illinois' economy by increasing spending at local businesses.

"I applaud Speaker Madigan and the members of the Illinois House who voted today to move this referendum forward.

"As we work to build a majority to raise the minimum wage in Illinois, this referendum will help us get the job done."