Cuomo Proposes $20 Minimum Wage for NYC by 2027

Andrew Cuomo, leading the race for New York City mayor, has proposed raising the city's minimum wage to $20 per hour by 2027, aiming to address affordability and benefit approximately 800,000 workers. The plan, introduced at a union-supported rally, would need approval from Governor Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers, since minimum wage is set at the state level. Cuomo highlights his previous success in raising New York's minimum wage to $15, but faces criticism for earlier opposition to local wage increases and for acting under pressure. The proposal includes a cost-of-living study and potential tax credits to help small businesses offset increased labor costs. The initiative is seen as an appeal to progressive voters and unions as Cuomo faces competition from the party's left. However, questions remain about the necessity of the proposal, since current state law already indexes the minimum wage to inflation.