Increase would take effect in a single year

The federal Department of Labor has proposed an increase in the base salary of overtime-exempt employees of nearly 50% in a single year. The jump would constitute an increase from $23,660 to $35,308 annually.

Such an increase would be a daunting single step for small businesses, more likely to lead to job cuts than a general boost for employees, National Newspaper Association President Andrew Johnson said in a statement to members.

That’s why the NNA has proposed an increase that would instead rise gradually over six years.

In an effort to show Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta the significant burden that a one-year jump would be for small businesses across the country, the NNA and WNA are asking members to consider signing the petition opposing the proposed timeline.

Opponents of the current timeline should sign the online petition by May 1.