Arizona businesses share realities of proposed minimum-wage hike
Arizona's Proposition 206, which proposes to raise the minimum wage and guarantee employees paid sick time, has split the state's business community.
The unions and nearly 200 local small businesses have come out in support of the measure, saying it would be better for their employees and the community as a whole. They believe more money in employees' pockets would equate to more money spent in their businesses, boosting the state's economy.
The state's most influential business organizations, representing large corporations, small businesses and restaurants, oppose it. They argue the increased wages would be disastrous for the local economy, forcing local businesses to close, eliminate entry-level jobs and raise the prices of goods and services.
A yes vote on Proposition 206, also called the Healthy Working Families Initiative, would gradually increase the minimum wage from Arizona's current $8.05 per hour to $12 per hour by 2020. It also would require employers to offer paid sick time. A no vote would maintain the current regulations. Currently, the state adjusts the minimum wage annually based on inflation. Employers set their own paid-sick-leave policy.
Read more: http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/elections/2016/10/14/arizona-businesses-share-realities-minimum-wage-hike-proposition-206/90802824/
