The Line: Debate Over Raising Minimum Wage

February 8, 2019 – New Mexico’s minimum wage has remained at $7.50 for over ten years now, and Democratic lawmakers think it’s been too low for too long. The House Commerce and Economic Development Committee last week voted along party lines last week on HB31, a bill to raise the state’s minimum wage to $10 an hour in July, with an annual increase until it reaches $12 an hour on 2021. Not everyone approves of the plan, though, especially a large segment of the restaurant industry, many who feel a lower minimum wage for workers who traditionally rely on tips should be maintained.   Gene Grant and the Line opinion panelists debate the merits and downsides of this bill, and look at other minimum wage bills making their way through this legislative session.

Line Panelists:
Michael Bird, public health consultant
Tom Garrity, the Garrity Group PR
Sophie Martin, attorney
Mary T. Torres, attorney at Law Offices of Mary T. Torres

For Further Reading:

New Mexico restaurant industry fights wage bill — Andrew Oxford, Santa Fe New Mexican

Proposal to raise New Mexico’s minimum wage will head to house floor – Ruidoso News

HB31 – New Mexico Legislature website