Illinois Senators approved a plan last night that would hike the state's minimum wage to eleven dollars an hour.
Jackie Collins, a Chicago Democrat, says that would improve quality of life for low-income workers, and reduce their need for government assistance.
"I believe that what we are doing here, we will send a message to those corporations - the multi-billionaire corporations, that no longer will we support sub-par wages, in the knowledge that the government will help their workers afford food, housing and healthcare."
But the vote took place after the House adjourned without doing the same. But advocates of a wage hike say there's still a chance it could happen if Governor Pat Quinn calls a special session.
In a statement, Quinn appeared open to the idea, but he did not commit. Quinn says he will continue working with members of the House.
The Senate's action comes after the Chicago City Council voted to raise the city’s minimum wage above the state's. Many legislators say that thwarted plans for a statewide increase.
