SB 2016-026: A Real Living Wage Act (Final Vote)

[Blair]

Thanks to Tmth as always for being on the ball as Speaker.

This is a bill that I introduced before in the Senate, and sadly it fell down at the last hurdle. I want to introduce an amendment that would go further, and peg the minimum wage to inflation which would allow it to become more natural; markets wise.

Several people have called for a $15 minimum wage (something I'd support if I was running for Mayor of New York, or Seattle) However we need to accept that we're governing for the whole of Atlasia, and it would be a big shock to double the minimum wage overnight. Several regions have introduced they're own minimum wages, but others haven't- hence why we need a federal baseline.

The statistics on the minimum wage are comprehensive within academic circles- raising the minimum wage neither hurts the big chain businesses like McDonald's, whilst the smaller coffee shops tend to (in my RL experience) support a sustainable minimum as it A.) Increases productivity B.) Increases staff loyalty.

A mistake I made last time as not adding support for small businesses- I would be happy to accept an amendment offering some sort of tax waiver/tax credit to help small businesses in conjection with this bill   

[Blair]

I'm going to offer an amendment that will do just that.

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Does the sponsor consider this amount reasonable?

if someone with creative math skills could work out the percentage increase that I'm putting forward, and have that as the tax credit amount for the next three years I'd support that- I'm on the Train atm on my phone and lack the means to get a nice amendment sorted

[Blair]

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[Blair]

Hi there, hope you don't mind me crossing over, I was briefly for this idea given that I don't think that the minimum wage hike call from our friends on the left side of the aisle will stop, but I would like to presently stand against this as it should be seen as a regional issue, NOT a federal issue.

Don't mind at all- only a short walk

Out of interest, why do you see this as a regional issue?

[Blair]

Nay

[Blair]

This I believe would overturn bills that have been passed (or are in the process) of being passed in Freemont and the North. Major cities, like New York and San Francisco that have an absolutely high cost of living should have a right to set a $15 minimum wage.

[Blair]

Amendment is friendly

[Blair]

Did the other Senators apart from Scott have an objection to the tax credit amendment?

[Blair]

I motion for a final vote on this bill

[Blair]

Proud Aye