Morning Briefing: Monday, Dec. 30, 2024

The minimum wage will change in Ohio later this week.

Today in the Morning Briefing, we look at why that change is happening and the mixed reactions to any change in the minimum wage. We also tell you about the amazing life of former President Jimmy Carter, who died on Sunday at age 100.

If you have thoughts or feedback on this newsletter or other news tips, please let me know at Kyle.Nagel@coxinc.com.

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The newsletter should take about 3 minutes, 23 seconds to read.

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Ohio minimum wage to increase in 2025 by smallest amount in years

Ohio’s minimum wage will increase to $10.70 an hour for 2025.

• Why the change? It’s brought on by a 2.4% increase to the Consumer Price Index, used to measure inflation, that Americans saw throughout most of 2024.

• Some workers different: Tipped workers will have a pay rate that is half that of non-tipped minimum wage employees, $5.35 per hour.

• Smaller change: The 25-cent increase from 2023 to 2024 is the lowest rise Ohio has seen since American inflation rates began to soar in 2021.

• What they’re saying: “When employers are mandated to raise wages, it impacts their investments they can make with their current workforce and their operations,” Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce President Chris Kershner told us.


Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100

Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, endured humbling defeat after one tumultuous term and then redefined life after the White House as a global humanitarian, has died.

• A deep life: Carter was a businessman, Navy officer, evangelist, politician, negotiator, author, woodworker and citizen of the world.

• Accomplishments: His record includes the deregulation of key industries, reduction of U.S. dependence on foreign oil, cautious management of the national debt and notable legislation on the environment, education and mental health. He also focused on human rights in foreign policy.

• Memorable moments: Here’s a look at significant events in Carter’s life.

• Memorable quotes: Relive major moments in Carter’s life through some of his most powerful quotes.


What to know today

• One big takeaway: Greene County commissioner Rick Perales is closing the chapter on more than 20 years of time in elected office, and says he plans to turn the next chapter of his life toward helping America’s veterans.

• Quote of the day: “When people would ask how long I intended to keep writing columns, I always replied, ‘Until I get one right.’ I never got there. But what a trip I’ve had trying.” — D.L. Stewart, writing in his final column in a 58-year career for Dayton newspapers.

• Photo of the day: Greene County Environmental Services is recycling Christmas trees on Greene Way Boulevard. Photographer Jim Noelker gathered some drone visuals of the operation preparing to kick into high gear.

Greene County Environmental Services  are recycling Christmas trees on Greene Way Blvd. JIM NOELKER/STAFF

Credit: Jim Noelker

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Credit: Jim Noelker