I-1433 will help students

With the ever-rising costs of college tuition and textbooks, too many college students are struggling to make ends meet. Currently, Washington’s minimum wage of $9.47 isn’t even enough to pay for basic needs like food and a place to live. Now, imagine having to pay for textbooks, tuition and extra class fees on top of that.

Having to work 40 hours a week while also going to school leaves almost no time for homework, or studying. As a student at Eastern Washington University, I see students struggling with this every quarter.

By raising the minimum wage to $13.50 gradually over the next four years, workers will earn $600 more a month. For college students, that means not having to choose between food and a $300 textbook. And for people who already have student debt, this means being able to make your payments on time.

Initiative 1433 will allow students to worry less about how they are going to afford food, rent and the books, which will in turn allow them to focus on and get the most out of their education.

Emily Provencio

Otis Orchards