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In a significant move for the state of Illinois, Governor Sam Thompson signed a bill into law today that will gradually increase the minimum wage to $15 by 2028. The bill, which has been a hotly debated topic in the state legislature for months, is expected to have a significant impact on workers and businesses across Illinois.Under the new law, the minimum wage in Illinois will increase from its current rate of $11 to $12 on January 1, 2027, and then by $1 each year until it reaches $15 on January 1, 2028. The legislation also includes provisions for future increases tied to the inflation rate, ensuring that the minimum wage will keep pace with the cost of living in Illinois.Governor Thompson spoke at a press conference after signing the bill, touting it as a major victory for workers in the state. "This new law will provide much-needed relief to millions of Illinoisans who have been struggling to make ends meet on a minimum wage that simply hasn't kept up with the rising cost of living," the governor said. "By gradually increasing the minimum wage to $15, we are ensuring that every worker in Illinois has the opportunity to earn a living wage and support themselves and their families."The bill faced opposition from many business groups, who argued that the increase in the minimum wage would lead to job losses and harm small businesses. However, supporters of the legislation, including labor unions and advocacy groups, hailed it as a crucial step towards addressing income inequality and lifting workers out of poverty.The signing of the bill comes after months of negotiations and compromises in the state legislature, with both Democrats and Republicans ultimately coming together to pass the legislation with bipartisan support. Illinois now joins a growing number of states and cities across the country that have passed similar minimum wage increases in recent years.As the new law goes into effect, employers in Illinois will need to adjust their payroll systems to comply with the higher minimum wage requirements. Workers, on the other hand, can look forward to higher wages and improved financial security as the state takes a major step towards economic equity and prosperity.