The evidence shows raising the minimum wage doesn’t kill jobs — it strengthens local economies

When workers earn more, they spend more at small businesses in their communities. That creates demand, which creates jobs. A higher wage also reduces reliance on taxpayer-funded safety nets like food stamps and Medicaid, so the burden on the public actually goes down. The real ‘job killer’ isn’t fair pay — it’s poverty wages that keep people working full-time while still unable to cover rent, food, or healthcare. A living wage builds dignity and stability, which benefits everyone.