SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) voted Thursday to increase Illinois’ minimum wage to $15 by 2025, saying the legislation will ease the burden on working class families and the state.

“In the past, individuals could work 40 hours a week on the minimum wage and meet their financial responsibilities,” Castro said. “Now, that kind of income barely covers basic needs, especially those who provide for an entire family.”

Senate Bill 1 would incrementally raise the minimum wage from $8.25 per hour to $15 per hour by 2025.

“The gradual increase will allow for businesses to adapt to the new law,” Castro said. “We’re committed to making sure local economies adapt to a new wage structure that will ultimately save money for all taxpayers, as fewer working families have to rely on government services to survive.”

Senate Bill 1 passed the Illinois Senate and now awaits consideration in the House.