GOP's Baker Backs Minimum Wage Hike, Tax Credits
BOSTON (AP) — Republican candidate for governor Charlie Baker is backing an increase in the state's minimum wage to $10.50 per hour, but says it should be coupled with tax breaks for individuals and small businesses.
Baker released a series of economic proposals on Monday while beginning a statewide campaign tour.
He endorsed a House-passed bill that would raise the minimum wage to $10.50 per hour over three years. But he said that would not be enough to help low-income workers and also called for doubling of the state's earned income tax credit.
He also proposed tax credits for small businesses to offset the cost a minimum wage hike.
Baker, the 2010 Republican nominee for governor, will face in the GOP primary tea party member Mark Fisher, who opposes a minimum wage hike.
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