Would a higher minimum wage increase costs and discourage people from starting businesses?
@freepatriot yes
@freepatriot Why are you asking a question you already know the answer to is ''yes''?
Maybe.
If my business was well-automated and my competition required more employees than I do, then a higher wage would improve my prospects against them.
@freepatriot Wages are already higher for the vast majority. A Federal increase wouldn't hurt today and would benefit the handful left out. Shouldn't be done all at once, should be spread out and a tiered approach because a 50 year old has more experience and knowledge than a 40, 30, 25, 19 or 16 year old.