House Approves Measure To Limit Minimum Wage

The Oklahoma House of Representatives voted 68-22 in favor of a bill to prohibit municipalities in the state from establishing a mandatory minimum wage or number of vacation or sick days.

Republican Representative Randy Grau of Edmond said the legislation prevents higher minimum wages in different parts of the state, which said could harm consumers and businesses and could drive up inflation.

2/25/2014 Related Story: Oklahoma In Middle Of Minimum Wage Debate

Those opposed to the bill said state government shouldn't legislate decisions that should be left up to individual communities across the state. Like building codes and zoning, opponents say the decisions should be left up to individual municipalities and that communities can best govern themselves.

The bill now returns to the Senate where it has previously passed.