Memphis Area Officials Debate Local Minimum Wage

Two camps are forming over the debate about creating a wage floor for companies seeking tax breaks from the Memphis and Shelby County Industrial Board.

Some business officials worry that forcing companies to pay a minimum wage will drive business to other cities, while others suggest it could be a tool to attract higher paying jobs. Some local government officials believe the wage floor will help ensure more higher paying jobs for the area.

This is a contentious issue being debated in many communities across the country. Over 125 cities have adopted living wage laws that set a local minimum wage for projects receiving local economic development incentives. Most economic developers we've talked with do not see the wisdom of this policy, especially at a time when the economy is working hard to get back on its feet.

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