Minimum Wage Debate

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the issues pertaining to the minimum wage debate. The paper reports that the minimum wage is set by Congress and therefore minimum wage is codified in federal law. Moreover, minimum wage was established as law in 1938 under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The FLSA is presided over by the United States Department of Labor and minimum wage can only be changed by Congressional vote.

From the Paper:

"Many states have opted for the establishment of what are sometimes called "living wages." The living wage is generally higher than the nationally established minimum wage and more accurately reflects the cost of living within the state. State minimum wages are occasionally linked to economic indicators; for example, Florida, Oregon, and Washington State each regulate minimum wage according to inflation rates (Economic Policy Institute). The method of changing a state's minimum wage differs depending on the lawmaking procedure in place in that state. State minimum wage policies may reflect the needs of specific industries within that state. For example, a state with an agriculture-based economy might present different wage policies for farm workers. Specific professions, including tip-earning professions, may also be exempt from minimum wage standards."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Economic Policy Institute. "Frequently Asked Questions." Retrieved Sept 17, 2006 from http://www.epi.org/content.cfm/issueguides_minwage_minwagefaq
• Minimum Wage and Overtime Basics. FindLaw. Retrieved Sept 17, 2006 from http://employment.findlaw.com/employment/employment-employee-wages-benefits/employment-employee-wages-benefits-wages-overview.html
• United States Department of Labor. "Questions and Answers About the Minimum Wage." http://www.dol.gov/esa/minwage/q-a.htm

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