Should the government raise the minimum wage?
Andrew Ramirez
Published Mar 16, 2026
Raising the federal minimum wage will also stimulate consumer spending, help businesses’ bottom lines, and grow the economy. A modest increase would improve worker productivity, and reduce employee turnover and absenteeism. It would also boost the overall economy by generating increased consumer demand.
Why should we raise the minimum wage?
Raising the minimum wage strengthens workers’ purchasing power and, in turn, provides a boost to the overall economy. Raising the minimum wage would also help close the racial wealth gap, which is at historic levels. The current federal minimum is lower in real value than in 1956.
What would happen if minimum wage was raised?
The federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour has not changed since 2009. Increasing it would raise the earnings and family income of most low-wage workers, lifting some families out of poverty—but it would cause other low-wage workers to become jobless, and their family income would fall.
Will the cost of living go up if minimum wage goes up?
Many business leaders fear that any increase in the minimum wage will be passed on to consumers through price increases thereby slowing spending and economic growth, but that may not be the case. They also observe that small minimum wage increases do not lead to higher prices and may actually reduce prices.
Why is increasing minimum wage bad?
Among the disadvantages of increasing the minimum wage is the probable consequence of businesses increasing prices, thus fueling inflation. The 2019 CBO report estimates that raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025 would result in the loss of approximately 1.3 million jobs.
Can McDonald’s afford 15 an hour?
“We know McDonald’s can afford to raise pay to $15/hr for every single employee, not just some employees at corporate-owned and operated stores,” Fight for $15 said in a statement on Thursday. “We’re ready to continue our fight to win $15 for every worker across the country. “
Which states have $15 an hour minimum wage?
In New York, the minimum wage will increase to $12.50 per hour, although in New York City, the minimum wage is $15. States such as California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts and others have approved gradual, annual minimum wage increases to reach $15 per hour within several years.
What is the starting pay at McDonald’s 2020?
Entry-level employees will be making $11 to $17 per hour, and shift managers will make $15 to $20 an hour, based on location.
Did Mcdonalds raise their pay?
In May, McDonald’s, just months after other fractious disputes with franchisees over tuition programs and technology fee payments, announced that workers at McDonald’s 650 company-owned locations will see pay raises of an average of 10% by the end of June — entry-level employees will make $11 to $17 per hour, and shift …