Jason Delgado
Americans for Prosperity-Florida, a libertarian advocacy group, will begin their offensive this week against the $15 minimum wage initiative proposed for 2020.
The ad campaign against Amendment 2 will be launched online and by mail. The group will also deploy a radio ad encouraging Floridians to vote against the amendment on Nov. 3.
“When businesses and workers across the state are reeling from the economic impacts of COVID-19, raising the minimum wage and imposing a one-size fits all wage would be devastating as small businesses are trying to recover,” said AFP-FL State Director Skylar Zander. “Amendment 2 could force even more small businesses to close and eliminate at least 158,000 jobs.”
Amendment 2, if approved by 60% of voters, would bump Florida’s minimum wage to $10 in 2021. Thereafter, the minimum wage would increase each year by $1 until reaching $15 in 2026.
The matter in recent weeks has drawn several critics including Sen. Joe Gruters and Chris Sprowls, the future house leader. It also has attracted fanfare from Sen. José Javier Rodríguez and a spirited defense from John Morgan, the amendment’s sponsor.
Proponents of the amendment argue a higher wage would lift many workers out of poverty, increase consumerism and reduce dependency on social programs. Opponents, on the other hand, warn of several unintended consequences, which may include inflation, layoffs and reduced hours for low-skill earners.
What’s more, opponents argue a wage hike would devastate the many businesses already struggling through the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Instead of helping workers and businesses, Amendment 2 would cut the rungs off the economic ladder, making it harder for people to get to work,” Zander added. “Rejecting this misguided ballot initiative will protect Florida workers, families, and small businesses. That’s why we’re going out and educating Floridians about the effects this would have on our state’s future, and why economic growth is best sustained by removing barriers to make it easier for people to find jobs and live their version of the American dream.”
According to estimates from the Financial Impact Estimating Conference, Amendment 2 would increase the annual wage costs of government agencies alone from $16 million in 2022 to $540 million in 2027.
The political committee behind the proposed constitutional amendment is Florida for a Fair Wage.
In August, Florida Restaurant and Lodging CEO Carol Dover conceded that she and critics are facing an uphill battle against the initiative.
A recent survey conducted by St. Pete Polls shows nearly 65% of Floridians are poised to vote yes on the amendment. According to the poll, roughly 23% of voters would vote against the measure if the election were held today while nearly 13% remain undecided.
The survey’s suggested level of support easily clears the 60% threshold required for voters to amend the Florida Constitution.
The state’s current minimum hourly wage is $8.56.
6 comments
John
October 4, 2020 at 12:29 pm
Nearly every city and state that has increased their minimum wages has seen an economic boost after enactment.
Dan Lanske
October 5, 2020 at 7:15 am
not true. states and cities that has eacted $15 minimum wage are suffering greatly. Seattle for example, has hundreds of small businesses, and even more jobs. There are articles after articles and even mini documentaries discussing how businesses moved out of the city to smaller suburbs because of the minimum wage.
California is another one, they are experiencing an exodus! Tens of Thousands more are fleeing the state than moving due to their high cost of living. Partly due to the high minimum wage.
Dont turn florida into california! Vote NO on this monstrosity!
GD
October 5, 2020 at 9:46 am
Americans for Prosperity-Florida is lying through their teeth and only for prosperity for the wealthy, corporations while keeping workers on food stamps, unable to afford basic living items, shelter, etc.
Thus putting the burden on the taxpayers.
Workers who make more money have money to spend raising all boats and time for the 1% and corporations to understand that so we’ll be voting for it.
The question is why it isn’t already $10/hr and the answer is greed, corruption in the repub party, it’s paymasters.
Guest
October 5, 2020 at 11:53 am
americans for prosperity is FULL of bull. They are NOT for America or prosperity. They MUST NOT exist anymore. They are trash. Those un-Americans AGAINST a higher minimum wage, what’s YOUR solution? Put it out there. Help people out, in that way.
Guest
October 5, 2020 at 11:57 am
americans for prosperity is disloyal and have NO business existing. NONE. Someone MUST bankrupt their worthless selves, OUT of existence.
GL
October 7, 2020 at 5:40 pm
Why not ask for a raise if you are worth more per hour or leap out there and search out higher paying jobs with better benefits? For 20 years I actually awarded those who worked for our family business almost everytime if they could present a good evaluation for their work. Companies do not always know if you are doing your best for them and it is your opportunity to explain how you have been a team player with ideas and implementing business practices efficiently. Can’t say that very many walked out of that office without a smile if the company could even give a portion or all of that request. Just Ask…
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