DC Students Matter. Raise the Summer Job Wage.​

Let's Get This Over With

Youth ages 16–21 are paid $9.50/hour, far below DC’s minimum wage of $17.95/hour.
This wage gap discourages participation and greatly impacts students facing rising costs of living, tuition, and career preparation.

The Solution

The Pay The Youth Bill (25-744) will:

  • Pay SYEP participants of various ages the DC minimum wage

  • Expand participation and retention in MBSYEP

  • Strengthen long-term workforce readiness

The Impact

  • Increased economic equity for DC youth

  • Stronger career pathways and skill development

  • Reduced crime through meaningful youth engagement

Proven Success

“MBSYEP gave me my first job and opened doors I never imagined.”
— Jeffrey Wright

Help Your Kids

Scan the QR code below to help pay the youth NOW.

Pay The Youth!

 

For more than 45 years, DC’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) has helped your children gain work experience, professional skills, and income that supports their families and education.

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  If you would like a more direct approch click the button below to join our team working to get this bill passed!

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