Pete A. to discuss wage option with Kennedy

In an unprecedented move, Senator Edward Kennedy has invited Washington Rep. Pete A. Tenorio to discuss the CNMI’s position on minimum wage prior to re-introducing his minimum wage bill. A meeting has been set for early next week.

“This is an election, and minimum wage issues are always popular before an election. I knew that the minimum wage issue would re-surface” said Tenorio. “This is why I went to Saipan, last month. We need consensus from industry and government leaders on an option to the implementation of federal minimum wage. We can’t continue year after year to fight implementation.”

“While the news that the bill would be re-introduced is expected, the opportunity to discuss the matter beforehand is better than I had anticipated. This is historic,” the Washington Representative added..

He also noted that he was excited upon receiving the call from Kennedy’s office but “when I found out what they wanted, I have to admit I was in shock.”

“By presenting a clear and unambiguous position about our concerns on the federal wage system, I am hopeful that we can prevent its implementation at this time, and hopefully permanently. I have to thank Senator Akaka for providing guidance on this issue. He has been very helpful and supportive,” he said.

Tenorio, with agreement from the parties in the CNMI, will be proposing a system similar to what is currently implemented in American Samoa where the minimum wage is established by a wage review committee, which looks at many aspects of wages, such as impact economy and employers, and living standards.

The committees are comprised of both federal and local members, which represent the industry, labor, employees, and government. “It is a very fair system, and while it is under the federal umbrella, there is also a strong element of local control,” said Tenorio.

Last month, Tenorio and Governor Juan N. Babauta met with industry leaders and the CNMI Legislature to discuss the matter of minimum wage and the option utilize these wage review committees.

“What I need now, are letters of support. We need to show a unified front. I have asked the House of Representatives, the Senate, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Saipan Garment Manufactures Association, as well as the Governor for letters of support. I will take these with me to the meeting next week. I want to show that we are together on this matter,” said Tenorio.