Governor Hochul asks New York Legislature to freeze 2027 minimum‑wage hike

New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Oct. 7, 2026 asked the Democrat‑led state legislature to approve a plan that would freeze the minimum‑wage increase slated for Jan. 1, 2027.

The request follows a 2023 law that ties future wage adjustments to inflation and job‑loss metrics; officials say thousands of private‑sector jobs vanished this year, triggering the freeze provision. State data also show higher consumer costs and a dip in consumer confidence, prompting the administration to argue that a raise would outpace workers’ purchasing power.

Hochul attributed the downturn to what she called the “misguided policies” of President Donald Trump, specifically citing recent tariff actions and the ongoing Iran war. “This change is good for workers and businesses as it will ensure that those hardest hit by Trump’s affordability crisis keep pace with the cost of living, maintain their purchasing power, contribute to the state economy, and support our small business community,” she said in a statement.

While New York moves to hold its wage steady, several other blue states are set to raise theirs in 2027. Washington will lift its minimum to $17.73 an hour, Connecticut to $17.48, California to $17.40, New Jersey to $16.48, and Michigan to $15.00, according to a Fox News report. Those higher rates are intended to keep pace with inflation and support low‑wage earners, but critics argue they could pressure small businesses with higher labor costs.

The governor’s proposal now heads to the state Senate, where Democratic leaders will debate the balance between protecting workers and easing the burden on businesses. A legislative vote is expected in the coming weeks, determining whether New York will join its neighboring states in raising wages or maintain the freeze for another year.