A new minimum wage increase in Ontario is expected to put more money in the pockets of workers in Greater Napanee and across the province.
The Government of Ontario says the general minimum wage will rise to $17.95 an hour on October 1, 2026, up from $17.60, benefiting more than 700,000 workers.
Labour Minister David Piccini says the increase is tied to inflation and aims to help workers keep up with rising costs while supporting businesses.
In Greater Napanee, where many minimum wage jobs are in retail and food services, the change could impact a large portion of the local workforce.
A full-time minimum wage worker could earn about $728 more per year.
Officials say the move helps keep Ontario competitive while supporting families during economic uncertainty.
Story by Alyssa Brush
