The push for a $15 minimum wage gained steam last year, with a majority of Americans favoring the so-called “livable” wage. While intentions to raise the standards of those on the lowest rung of the economic ladder are admirable, they are not without consequences. Consider California:
The state raised its minimum wage to $10.50 an hour at the start of the new year; it will rise to $15 by 2022. California’s apparel manufacturing sector has seen a resurgence in recent years, the result of renewed interest in American-made and responsibly produced apparel. Many of these businesses are small, and would like to stay in the state. But the math just doesn’t add up, so they are exploring neighboring states with a more business friendly environment.
What does a higher minimum wage hold for other states? And other industries?