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http://www.wispolitics.com/index.iml?Article=29417


Rep. Ziegelbauer: Minimum Wage Statement

1/10/2005 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Rep. Bob Ziegelbauer (920) 684-6783

Manitowoc Rep. Bob Ziegelbauer (D-Manitowoc) today released this statement on proposals to raise the minimum wage, "Raising the minimum wage seems to be a popular political idea. While we might wish otherwise, the reality is that government can't create wealth this way. This is a bad idea that will hurt poor people."

"The truth is that in a market economy the world of work is the real path to success. Minimum wage jobs are an entry level beginning for the inexperienced, the first rung on the ladder of economic opportunity, and rarely a source of family supporting income."

"Wages are determined by the value an employee can bring to an employer. Raising the minimum will only have the effect of making it that much harder for those needing the experience, to bring enough value to a potential employer, to get that first job, and a start in our opportunity society."

"Taxing entry level jobs by raising the minimum wage will yield less jobs, but surely protect those who already "have" (the jobs, & the business), at the expense of those who "need" it most. Knocking out another bottom rung on the ladder of economic opportunity makes it harder for those who need to climb aboard and share in the prosperity of America."

"I hope that the Wisconsin State Legislature will have the courage to do what's right for those most in need of opportunity rather than what sounds good."