Ewing signs Omaha’s minimum wage ordinance despite possible ‘legal issues’

Mayor John Ewing Jr. signed Omaha’s minimum wage ordinance despite possible legal challenges.

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Mayor John Ewing Jr. signs Omaha’s minimum wage ordinance despite possible ‘legal issues’

OMAHA, Neb. —

Mayor John Ewing Jr. said that he signed Omaha’s minimum wage ordinance into law Tuesday.

“First, we all have experiences earning a minimum wage, as we heard in the public hearing. My experience informed this decision because teenagers, even younger ones, often help supplement their family’s overall income. I used my own teen wages to buy school clothes, which reduced the burden on my parents. This ordinance will help families. It is the right thing to do,” Ewing said in a statement. “Second, I am aware of the legal issues surrounding this legislation. I am confident the City can successfully argue for Omaha having its own minimum wage ordinance.”

Previous coverage: Omaha City Council approves minimum wage 4-3; Mayor weighing ‘legal considerations’

The “legal issues” refer to a possible challenge from Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers.

Omaha’s ordinance aims to essentially re-establish the minimum wage increases approved by Nebraska voters in 2022, which were altered by the state legislature earlier this year to lower annual increases and set a minimum wage below $15 for the youngest workers.

Earlier this month, the Omaha City Council voted 4-3 to approve the minimum wage proposal. Aimee Melton, Brinker Harding, and Don Rowe voted against. Each said the vote wasn’t about the minimum wage, but whether Omaha had the authority to pass such a law.

Last week, a judge granted an injunction to pause the city of Lincoln’s ordinance over minimum wage.

Currently, no Nebraska law explicitly prohibits cities from setting their own minimum wage.

“I was proud to have brought this fight to the Council on behalf of the clear mandate from Omaha voters,” Omaha City Council President Danny Begley told KETV on Tuesday. “I am pleased that the Mayor has signed the ordinance… and we will continue this fight in the courts on behalf of the workers and voters of Omaha.”

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