Economics

Aetna Gives Lowest-Wage Employees a Raise as Economy Improves

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Aetna Inc. is boosting the pay for its lowest-earning employees, joining companies like Starbucks Corp. and Gap Inc. in raising wages as the growing U.S. economy leads to a tighter job market.

About 5,700 employees in areas such as customer service and billing will get a minimum of $16 an hour starting in April, Cynthia Michener, a spokeswoman, said in an e-mail. The company also plans to cover more health-care costs for 7,000 workers beginning next year, she said.