The first of a series of annual minimum-wage increases takes effect as 2015 begins Thursday, climbing 35 cents to $9.15 per hour.
Under a state law signed earlier this year, two more increases will take effect through 2017.
On Jan. 1, 2016, the minimum wage will rise to $9.60, and it will climb to $10.10 the following year.
The increase drew a March visit from President Obama, who has advocated for an increase in the $7.25 federal minimum wage.
