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Consider the consequences of $15 minimum

How would you feel if, as you were about to pay for some bread and milk at the grocery store, the cashier stopped and said, “I’m going to have to add some to your bill. We have to cover the costs of state-mandated $15 an hour minimum wage. Also, we’re charging more to cover the city-required six weeks’ paid leave we have to give any employees if children are born to them.”

You might smile and respond, “Oh, that’s fine. I think both of those are great ideas!”

On the other hand, if you are living on a limited income, you might react with annoyance.

That won’t happen, of course – but it could in San Francisco. The city is implementing a new requirement that any business with 20 or more employees provide the child “bonding” leave. State legislators just increased the minimum wage to $15.

Most of us want the very best lives possible for everyone. We Americans are recognized for our charitable giving.

But we realize money does not grow on trees. When businesses are required by government to spend more on employee benefits, environmental controls and a host of other things, they pass the cost on to customers.

That means everyone – including low-income customers – pays more. It also limits job opportunities for those with few or no skills.

But social engineers like those in California do not want you to think about that. They want you to believe it is possible to do nice things for people without anyone having to pay the tab.

And, they do not want you to have any choice in the matter.

That seems to have become a way of life in California. Voters should not allow it to happen here.

editorial@tribtoday.com

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