Markets Have Already Solved the Minimum Wage Debate

Originally published by TribLIVE.

Raising the minimum wage would have minimal impact on Pennsylvania’s economy. That’s not just my opinion; that’s precisely what the current administration—the very same one pushing for a $15-per-hour minimum wage—admitted.

During a House Appropriations Committee hearing, Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Valerie Arkoosh conceded the governor’s minimum wage proposal would have minimal impact because, by 2027, market wages will already meet or exceed $15 per hour. Days later, Revenue Secretary Pat Browne acknowledged employers already are increasing wages without mandates.

Legislating a higher minimum wage is, in large part, ratifying what’s already happening. The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) estimates the effective market minimum wage is around $11 to $11.50 per hour—and climbing. Put simply, the market is raising wages faster than any bill can move through the state legislature.

Read more at TribLIVE.