John Sarbanes: “I think many employers are supportive of an increase in the minimum wage. In fact, the employers who spoke at this press…”

“I think many employers are supportive of an increase in the minimum wage. In fact, the employers who spoke at this press conference this morning indicated they were in favor of raising the minimum wage. One of the press people said, ``If you are in favor of it, why do you not just go ahead and do it, and voluntarily raise it in your business?'' This lady had an immediate comeback, right on point. She said, ``If all my competitors will raise their wages, their payrolls, then I am quite prepared to do it. Otherwise, I am placed at a competitive disadvantage.'' In effect, under the current system, the only employer who is not responsive to the needs of his employee, in effect, dictates the standard, and it is all brought down to the lowest common denominator. For many employers, this enables them to do what they think ought to be done in any event--that is, give their employees a better wage.”