Political Editorial

There is ongoing debate regarding advantages and disadvantages of raising the minimum wage. The US government imposes a pay floor that forces employers to pay employees a certain amount for an hour of work; this, in essence, defines minimum wage. Historically, the minimum wage has periodically increased. There are both benefits and detriments that come with such raises. The pros to raising minimum wage include benefits to individuals, families, communities, and businesses. Workers and their families obviously benefit by higher earnings which allow them to afford to make ends meet and rely less on charity. While some workers who make the minimum wage are young students and part-time workers, there are many workers who help support families with minimum wage jobs. In particular, women and minorities hold the majority of minimum wage jobs, but also support a high percentage of dependents. Communities benefit from higher consumption when minimum wage is raised. Consumers who have more income will tend to spend more which in turn drives economic growth. Higher consumption also increases sales tax revenue, which is used for public services. Businesses benefit from improved job satisfaction, reduced employee turnover, and increased productivity. The cons to raising minimum wage also include detriments to individuals, families, communities, and businesses. Entry level positions can be eliminated which makes increases unemployment. This especially impacts younger and less-skilled workers. Unemployment and job competition also extends reliance on welfare and social services. With a higher minimum wage, businesses cannot afford to provide the same level of job benefits to workers such as health insurance, formal training, retirement contributions, etc. Overall, communities suffer a negative domino effect from poverty due to higher unemployment. Housing, health, education, crime rates, and even mortality are affected. The cost of goods and services