(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman today released this statement following Aetna's announcement that it will increase the company minimum wage to $16 an hour beginning in April:

"We applaud Aetna for their commitment to their workforce. This wage increase will benefit thousands of employees, and it sends a strong message that Aetna values their employees' work and cares about their quality of life. This salary increase, as well as Aetna's plans to expand healthcare coverage for employees, sets a strong example for business and industry throughout the state and the nation."