Richard Burr: “on this brisk day in Washington, weatherwise, we have had a refreshing debate about minimum wage. I have listened to the…”

“on this brisk day in Washington, weatherwise, we have had a refreshing debate about minimum wage. I have listened to the majority leader say that those who have minimum wage amendments and would like to have votes are, in fact, against raising the minimum wage. I introduced my amendment yesterday. I highlighted the wonderful work of Senator Kennedy and Senator Enzi, the managers of the bill, the fact that we were long overdue for a minimum wage increase, and that, as a Member of the Senate, I thought it was important we explore, as we do this, if we can make some changes that allow us to address other areas. Now, I happen to be the Senator who offered the amendment--and I thank my colleagues Senator Coburn and Senator DeMint who are cosponsors--who suggested this--that with the $2.10 increase we make in minimum wage, we allow an employer to determine if they want to provide that increase in wages or in health care benefits.”