The state minimum wage will likely go up $1 in January, to $6.15 an hour, giving more than 100,000 workers a raise.

The state Senate voted 32-8 giving the increase tentative approval. A final vote is expected early next week.

The bill would then go to Gov. Mike Easley for his signature. The House approved the bill in May.

North Carolina would be one of about two dozen states that has a minimum wage higher than the federal minimum of $5.15 an hour, but would be alone among southeastern states.

Sen. Phil Berger, an Eden Republican, said raising the minimum would put North Carolina at a competitive disadvantage with neighboring states in attracting businesses.

“We’re already at a competitive disadvantage because of taxes and regulatory policy,” he said. “It’s not a good idea to be out of step with our neighbors.”

Supporters said North Carolina is not in competition with neighboring states for minimum wage jobs.

“I want us to be a leader,” said Sen. Ellie Kinnaird, a Carrboro Democrat. “I don’t want us to be following.”