WASHINGTON, DC – On April 27, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, issued the following statement in support of President Biden’s Executive Order requiring that federal contractors are paid a $15 minimum wage:

“In one of the wealthiest countries on earth, it is unconscionable that the minimum wage falls far short of a living wage. Americans believe people should be paid fairly for a hard day’s work, and that families relying on minimum wage salaries should be able to afford a roof over their heads and food on their tables.

“By signing today’s executive order requiring federal contractors to pay a minimum wage of $15 an hour and phase out the use of a tipped minimum wage, President Biden affirmed his commitment to this fundamental value. The executive order ensures taxpayer dollars will uphold the dignity of work and will provide a living wage to essential workers like cleaning, maintenance, nursing, and food service staff whose efforts are critical to serving the American people.

“Today’s executive order marks an important milestone in the Fight for Fifteen to set a $15 minimum wage for all. Policies like this are essential in promoting pay equity and economic justice, building a more prosperous America for all. I thank the President for taking this important step and look forward to partnering on other measures to ensure our federal workers have the resources and support they need to succeed.”