January 1, 2007, was not only the beginning of a new year, but several states increased their state minimum wage. Pennsylvania was included in those states and now has a minimum wage of $6.25 an hour.
Personally, I do not oppose minimum wage, but I feel it is in need of drastic reform. Minimum wage was established in the United States back in the 1930's.
The Federal minimum wage should be abolished, but states should be allowed to set their own minimum wages. I absolutely feel that it belongs in the hands of the states and not the Federal Government to enforce a minimum wage.
Minimum wages do have their benefits and disadvantages. The major benefit is it establishes a standard of what a business should pay their employees. I am for employee rights. It is to ensure that businesses that employ citizens receive a minimum wage, altogether it may not always be a livable wage. It prevents scrupulous employers of taking advantage by paying a "sub-standard wage."
The biggest disadvantage is that it isn't always "business friendly." Many small businesses, also known as "Mom and Pop stores" and "Mom and Pop businesses" take the hardest blunt force of a minimum increase. It occasionally forces employees out of a job, but it is rare.
That was another point I was going to make that minimum wages increases put people out of jobs, which I find that hard to believe because I can name a lot of "low wage" entry level jobs that are hiring.
They mostly consist of those working in the food industry, primarily fast food workers and waitresses. Although I understand waitresses and waiters can make excellent money with their tips, their minimum wage is around $3 an hour. I have nothing against people working in those fields, because someone has to do it. Some people enjoy working in those environments. On a personal level it is not something for me. I know I would hate it.
Minimum wages do have advantages and disadvantages, but I feel it should be in the hands of the states and not the work of the Federal Government to decide what that determined amount should be.
Labels: news, personal posts, politics
