What Our Readers Think: Minimum Wage Boost

After Gov. Andrew Cuomo delivered his annual State of the State address last week ago, one of several major initiatives he outlined – increasing the state minimum wage – has received some feedback from residents in Westhampton and Hampton Bays.

To some, the proposed bump from $7.25 to $8.75 is too much, erasing employers' opportunity to incentivize higher wages for high-performing employees. To others, it's a logical increase in one of the most expensive places to live in the nation.

To others, it's just that: a proposal that needs to be discussed further before reaching a definite conclusion.

While state Sen. Ken LaValle, R-Port Jefferson, voted in favor of the state's last minimum wage increase, spokesman Drew Biondo said via email that "the devil is in the details," and LaValle would withhold further comment until a concrete plan is put on the table.

"Senator LaValle has not seen a bill yet and will have to weigh how increasing the minimum wage would impact our small businesses and farmers (Suffolk is the largest agricultural producer in the state), as well as unintended consequences of pushing aid recipients into a higher income bracket and thus making them ineligible for certain benefits that they currently receive."

When asked what they thought, Westhampton-Hampton Bays Patch Facebook followers responded with the following:

Wendy Poole wrote, "Hey they got a raise why shouldnt we?"

Lee Jackson said, "$8.75?.. full time= $1400 a month, less taxes. so if you rent an apartment for $800 (which would be a bargain) plus car insurance at least $100 a month put gas in it ( another $200 ) eat. then your broke.- your better off letting Obama care take care of you."

Joan Kozlik Schneider said she agrees that minimum wage should be increased.

And Raymond Degennaro said, "Even at $8.75 you would need to work a minimum of 3 jobs."

Now it's your turn. Add to the conversation by posting your comment below. 

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