Unions, business face off over Conn. wages bill

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- Companies receiving state economic development aid would have to pay benefits and wages higher than the minimum to janitors, security guards and other service workers in legislation being considered by lawmakers.

Unions are seeking to raise wages and improve benefits for workers at companies receiving such aid. The Connecticut Business and Industry Association says such a law would make it harder for the state to compete with others to attract and keep jobs.

Business lobbyists lost the first round when the legislature's Labor and Public Employees Committee approved the bill and sent it to the Commerce Committee. The legislation failed in last year's session.

The measure would require businesses receiving $500,000 or more in economic development aid to provide benefits and pay higher wages to its employees for 10 years.