According to CNN Money, the U.S. House Appropriations Committee voted to raise the minimum wage in periodic increments until it reaches $7.25 an hour by Jan. 1, 2009. The first minimum wage increase (if the legislation passes) is set for January 1, 2007.

This could spell trouble for U.S. employers, especially for those in the agriculture and hospitality industries, and could cause prices to rise for consumers. The new law will likely contribute to increased illegal immigration. See my earlier post on..

1.) The problems with the minimum wage law, and

2.) The connection between the minimum wage law and illegal immigration.