The California Assembly has green-lighted a plan that would create the highest statewide minimum wage in the nation of $15 an hour by 2022.

The proposal was passed Thursday and now moves on to the state Senate for consideration.

Democrats who control both legislative chambers hailed the increase as a boon to more than 2 million of California’s poorest workers and an example to the nation as it struggles with a growing gap between rich and poor.

Republicans echoed fears from business owners and economists that the annual increases � eventually tied to inflation � would compound California’s image as hostile to business.

The Assembly passed SB3 with a 48-26 vote.

The state of New York is considering a similar measure.

(AP)