Politics & Government
Lupinacci: Minimum Wage Hike Could Cause Unintended Impact For Youth Employment
Opportunities for high school students to gain work experience at part-time jobs, summer employment could be curtailed, Assemblyman says.
Assemblyman Lupinacci speaks at the press conference on the potential impacts of raising the state’s minimum wage to $15 per hour.
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Yesterday, Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci (R,C,I-South Huntington) joined his Assembly Minority colleagues to warn of unintended consequences that could be caused by raising the state’s minimum wage to $15 per hour.
“We all want to be able to provide for our families and ensure they have the necessary resources to succeed,” Lupinacci said. “My colleagues and I are concerned that the governor’s plan will impact the ability of youth in our state to gain meaningful work experience. With a raise to $15 per hour, employers are less likely to give young adults their first summer or part-time jobs. Our choices shouldn’t be between helping people in need or setting up our children for future success. We need a plan that accomplishes both – a plan that is fiscally responsible and beneficial in the long run.”
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As an alternative, the Assembly Minority supports increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which would target individuals who file head of household and are in need of assistance.
“This plan would provide concentrated assistance for those who are most in need while protecting both small business and preserving youth employment opportunities,” Lupinacci said.
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Lupinacci also discussed how his 'Learn for Work' program, a proposal included in his higher-education affordability plan, would assist high school juniors and seniors by giving them opportunities to work with local businesses and develop real-world skills.
“If we can bring together local businesses and our young adult workforce, both would benefit greatly,” Lupinacci said. “Small businesses would gain tax credits for participating in this program and students would learn technical skills and gain valuable experience from working in their chosen field. It is a win-win for everybody involved.”
