TIME magazine
March 10, 2014
In recent weeks, the debate over the proposed raising of the federal minimum wage has grown more and more heated. Proponents of an increased wage say that it would help to lift as many as 900,000 families out of poverty, but others argue that in doing so 500,000 jobs would be lost. One of the most important protesters is Richard Berman (sometimes called Dr. Evil by his critics). Even people (like David Card) who say the minimum wage would have little to no effect on employment think that raising the minimum wage is not the most effective way to combat poverty.
I think that raising the minimum wage so drastically would come with its own share of problems. We should look for other, better ways to assist low-wage people. It isn't likely that this proposal will gain the approval of Congress, although a smaller increase possibly could. This $2.85 raise seems unwarranted by the circumstances.
If the minimum wage were raised, those in the hospitality and leisure industry will most affected (since this industry employs the highest number of minimum wage workers). However, a raised wage could speed up the rate at which restaurants and other establishments adopt more advanced technology—for example, Chili's plans on installing tabletop screens for ordering food in 800 of its restaurants this year. In the end, the choice is between helping those working for minimum wage and allowing a greater number of Americans to have jobs.
Richard Berman:
Dr. Evil:
Wow! Richard Berman really does look like Dr. Evil! Does he want to spend the money on getting sharks with lasers on their heads??? I believe that you make a good point. There are many pros and cons to this topic. It is hard to decide whether raising minimum wage or gaining more jobs is more beneficial. There needs to be a way in which we can have both. Maybe they could raise it a little and create a few more job opportunities in order to suffice the nation.
ReplyDeleteThat's so creepy they look the same!!!!! You make a great point. We think of whats more important jobs or raising minimum wage. We need to come up with a way to have both.
ReplyDeleteRaising the minimum wage might make it harder to get hired for a job. If they are forced to pay you a certain amount the people you wish to work for will only search for the most qualified and hardworking people. Many great people might not get the job even though they have amazing potential.
ReplyDeleteBut another thing that could happen is the people working for minimum wage would earn more money and the economy would start working towards being fixed.
Yes, it would bring its fair share of problems because if the minimum wage was raised by around 2$, then the employees who already have 2 dollars above the line would be considered minimum wage workers. This could cause a whole new slew of problems.
ReplyDeleteminimum wage is 7.25 in VA that is a fair price considering how much it cost in VA to live but if you were to raise minimum wage you would have higher prices from businesses on products you want, and you would have higher taxes because you are making more. so raising minimum wage would cause business cuts because it is too expensive and create huge problems.
ReplyDeleteLiving in poverty is better than having no job at all. If they raise the minimum wage then so many people will be out of a job. They should work toward finding a balance. A $2.85 raise is very large and could drastically affect the economy. A small and steady change to track the progress might be a better decision.
ReplyDeleteI agree it might cause some problems but it would also have benefits! having a minimum wage pay myself I know others like me, and people who really need higher wages could greatly benefit
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