A columnist from the Southern California News Group is urging voters to reject an increase to California’s minimum wage that will be on the November ballot. The proposed measure would raise the minimum wage from $15 to $18 per hour by 2026. The columnist argues that while a minimum wage increase may seem beneficial, it can actually lead to unintended consequences such as higher consumer prices, reduced hours, and job loss for minimum wage workers.
The columnist points to a case in Seattle where a minimum wage increase led to a reduction in hours and job loss for workers, ultimately harming the very people the wage increase was supposed to help. The article also highlights that most private sector jobs come from small businesses, which may struggle to afford higher labor costs.
The columnist suggests that instead of focusing on raising the minimum wage, policymakers should support job creation and address the high cost of living in California. The columnist shares their own experience of moving beyond minimum wage jobs through upskilling and argues that providing resources and assistance to low-wage workers for upward mobility is a more effective solution than simply increasing wages.
Overall, the columnist encourages voters to reject the proposed minimum wage increase and advocate for more comprehensive solutions to address economic challenges in California.
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