Key Facts
• On September 17, Akita Prefecture proposed a $960 million supplementary budget.
• The budget addresses August-September flood recovery and minimum wage adjustments.
• Floods affected 106 homes in six cities and villages, including Semboku and Noshiro.
• Agricultural and fisheries damages reached $316 million as of September 16.
• Households with destroyed homes will receive $4,000; partially damaged homes, $1,300.
• Minimum wage in Akita will rise by $0.54 to $6.91/hour by March 31, 2026.
• $61 million allocated to support businesses raising wages before the official increase.
• Governor Suzuki emphasized disaster recovery and flood prevention measures.
Summary
Akita Prefecture has proposed a $960 million supplementary budget to address flood recovery and support wage increases. The August-September floods caused significant damage, impacting 106 homes and resulting in $316 million in agricultural losses. The budget includes financial aid for affected households, with $4,000 for destroyed homes and $1,300 for partially damaged ones. Additionally, $61 million is allocated to assist businesses in adjusting wages ahead of the planned $0.54 minimum wage increase, set to reach $6.91/hour by March 31, 2026. Governor Suzuki pledged continued efforts in disaster recovery and flood prevention.
