Today's Quinnipiac poll is further evidence New Yorkers agree that it is time to raise the state's minimum wage. A significant percentage of respondents to the latest poll - Democratic, Republican and independent voters alike - support increasing the minimum wage above the current $7.25 per hour. The message is clear, this is a matter of dignity. People who work full time should not be living in poverty.

Assembly Labor Committee Chair Keith Wright and I introduced legislation (A.9148) to lift the minimum wage to $8.50 an hour and index it to the rate of inflation, which would raise the standard of living for some one million New Yorkers statewide almost immediately. Equally important, taking this action will give local economies a much-needed boost and spur job creation at a time when our state needs it the most.

We should be listening to the people. It's time to raise the minimum wage.