A press release from the Minnesota DFL party:

ST. PAUL -- Today, Minnesota Democrats in Congress did what most Republicans refused to do for 10 years -- they voted to increase the federal minimum wage, raising it from $5.15 to $7.25.

Here in Minnesota, nearly 135,000 workers would benefit from a minimum-wage increase. That number is close to 13 million nationally.

In addition to increasing the minimum wage, the new Democratic Congress has already passed historic ethics reforms and the bi-partisan 9-11 Commission recommendations. 

“Increasing the minimum wage is not just sound economic policy, it’s a sign of our values,” Minnesota DFL Chairman Brian Melendez said. “Too many Minnesotans work hard and play by the rules in order to provide a good life for their families, but still live in poverty.

“Last November, the people went to the polls and voted for change in both domestic and foreign policy. Democrats are acting swiftly to fulfill our promise to restore America’s place as a country that works for everyone. Passing the minimum-wage increase is a critical first step toward that goal. We hope that President Bush signs this legislation to end the 10-year wait and provide millions of Americans the increase in wages that they deserve."