Montgomery County approves $15 minimum wage

The Montgomery County Council voted to increase the county's minimum wage to $15 per hour on Tuesday.

The vote was unanimous. The county's current minimum wage is $11.50 per hour.

The $15 minimum wage will be implemented by 2022 for large employers, which is defined as having 51 or more employees. For small employers, the change will be implemented by 2024.

"Montgomery County has a long history of programs and policies designed to increase opportunities for low-wage workers - more than just about any other jurisdiction," County Executive Ike Leggett said in a written statement. "Montgomery County residents who work hard to support themselves and their families need and deserve yet another increase in the minimum wage."

Those opposed to the increase say the minimum wage hike will hurt small businesses and could have larger employers looking elsewhere to conduct business.