[lesko]

How can you raise a family or even yourself on $7.25 an hour? Considering 2080 hours/year of work at $7.25 an hour comes to $15080.00 per year. How can you possibly get by on that salary? Minimum wage is NOT designed to support families, mortgages, vehicles, insurance, food, etc. Anyone making minimum wage after...lets say...about age 21 is an absolute loser and must be living at home with Mom and Dad.
Go to college, trade school, military, etc. - apply yourself - continue to learn - and then get a real job.
Am I way off base here?

[RobbyS]

It's symbolism. If Kennnedy were serious, he would suggest $15.00 and hour.

[Integrityrocks]

You're all missing my point. I am not in favor of grants, and other entitlements. Therefore, I think that a young person 16 - 18 SHOULD be able to make it "alone" on $15,000+ per year. Then, start that journey we are all referencing, to better skills, experience and better wages. You can't even get started "on your own" at 18 on the current min wage.

[Types_with_Fist]

Am I way off base here? Slightly. I work at the only available place in town. I wouldn't describe most of them -- or myself -- as "losers." Included are many with Associates degrees, Bachelors degrees. One lady I know is going after her Masters. I met one guy the other day who is a scientist. We all make $7.25 an hour. Many were raised here, have homes here and are just stuck here like me. Meanwhile... this town and the surrounding area continues to be inubdated with new arrivals from Mexico who take any and all other jobs, minumum wage and otherwise.