Raising Minimum Wage

Given the fact of our present high unemployment and an unstable economy, according to some people, the increases in minimum wage will only increase unemployment. Conversely, others believe that those who work for minimum wage are past due from being given a raise- because of the increased costs of living.

Minimum wage came into existence just after World War II, then at 40 Cents an hour. Minimum wage is essentially a law that makes it illegal for firms over a certain revenue point/size to hire anyone at a wage level below the official minimum.

Joining host, Dennis McCuistion, to discuss the pros and cons of proposed increases are:

• Liana Fox: Economic Analyst with Washington based, Economic Policy Institute
• John P. Greenan: Executive Director of the Central Dallas Community Development Corporation
• Robert Smith: Host of the Acorn Hour Radio Program on KNOW 89.3 FM (Association of the Community Organizations for Reform Now)
• Bob McTeer, PhD – Economist and distinguished Fellow with the National Center for Policy Analysis and former President of the Dallas Federal Reserve

Bob McTeer believes that raising the minimum wage may sound good in theory, but in fact some are not employed as a result of it, because firms may not be able to afford hiring them.

John Greenan believes that the minimum wage is low enough that increasing it will not decrease jobs. From his organization’s perspective,

“It’s a moral issue as well. It’s not right [for people] to work full time and not be able to support themselves.”

Join in for a lively discussion that hasn’t changed over the years as to the practicality and morality of minimum wage. Let us know what you think by posting a comment on our website or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/McCuistiontv.

As always thanks for joining us as we talk about things that matter with people who care.

Niki Nicastro McCuistion
Executive Producer/Producer

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