(TRENTON) – Assemblyman Joseph Cryan and Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto on Thursday hailed the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s decision to increase the minimum wage for workers at all area airports, including Newark Liberty International Airport.
Cryan and Prieto sponsored a resolution approved by the Assembly in March urging the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to request and support increase in the minimum wage for workers at Newark airport.
When they introduced the solution, which was supported by Democrats but opposed by Republicans, the lawmakers pointed out that the PANYNJ had already requested and indicated its support for a $1 per hour increase in pay for New York airport workers earning $9 per hour or less, at the urging of the Cuomo administration.
“Like all workers, Newark airport employees deserve jobs that allow them to support their families and live with dignity,” said Cryan (D-Union). “I wish this had happened sooner, but I’m pleased with the outcome and glad that the Port Authority listened to our concern. A living wage and economic fairness are core principles that we should all support.”
“It was absolutely crucial that the Port Authority approve an increase for New Jersey workers as well,” said Prieto (D-Bergen/Hudson). “I appreciate the support this income equality idea received, as of course do the workers who deserve a living wage. This was all about fairness and in the end the right thing was accomplished.”
