To the editor:
Minimum wage is a constant issue that divides the public in terms of opinions. While some support a higher minimum wage, others feel strongly that the minimum wage should remain minimum. However, our state’s newly elected governor, Phil Murphy, recently vocalized his view on the conflict. Murphy has made it evident that he desires to raise the minimum wage in New Jersey.
Not only is Murphy advocating for a higher minimum wage, but he also wants employers to give their employees sick pay. He has made it obvious to the public that he plans on doing everything he can to help those who are working hard, every single day, to barely make ends meet.
Personally, the issue of whether or not to raise the minimum wage has been something I have not been able to develop a permanent viewpoint on. At times, I think it should be raised. Here’s why: by raising the minimum wage, we are putting more money into circulation, which will help to stimulate and build up the economy. Not to mention raising the minimum wage will simultaneously help to combat the growing issue of poverty. People are going to their jobs all day long with only a nominal paycheck to show for it. If minimum wage is increased, these hard workers can be rewarded for their efforts.
On the flipside, I have also thought about the consequences raising the minimum wage in New Jersey would entail. If employers are required to pay every employee a higher hourly rate, that extra money is not going to fall from the sky. Employers will need to take this money from some other place, which will require them to lay off some of their workers. If more people are going to be losing their jobs, is raising the minimum wage the solution to solving poverty?
An increase in minimum wage will hurt certain companies and workers, while helping out certain workers. There is no guarantee that raising the minimum wage will fix these issues; however, there is no guarantee that it will cause issues either. Minimum wage is a significant subject that should not be taken lightly. With new governor Phil Murphy in office, I hope he can do what is right for the individual, for the business, and most of all, for New Jersey.
Elizabeth Suseck
Hillsborough