Push for minimum wage increases gains traction
Discussions about potential increases to minimum wage could become louder as the conversations gain traction. For instance, the United States Department of Labor plans to hold a discussion in Houston, Texas, about President Barack Obama's proposal to raise the amount of money employees earn for every hour of their time and attendance. This recommendation was made to ensure America's low-wage workers can provide for themselves and their families with their earnings.
The discussion on March 15 will be headed by the Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division acting deputy administrator Mary Beth Maxwell. The round table invites minimum wage earners and business leaders to come together and discuss the possible benefits of a pay increase.
When considering the potential impacts of a higher base pay, some people have looked to Oregon, according to The Los Angeles Times. The Northwest state passed the Harkin-Miller bill in 2002 that adjusts minimum wage to reflect increases to the Consumer Price Index as a way to ensure individuals can afford household goods and services.
"We've made sure that workers don't lose ground as the costs of everyday goods increase," said Brad Avakian, the Oregon Labor Commissioner, as quoted by the source. "Virtually every dime that comes through a higher minimum wage is reinvested in the local economy, when the worker buys groceries, gas, clothes, school supplies and other essentials."
Some have argued that this measure has cost the state much-needed jobs, but others point out that Oregon's base pay is not much higher than that in other states - $8.95 compared to $7.25 - and the raise contributes to tenure and productivity, the media outlet adds.
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