Assignment:
In February 2015, Walmart announced that it is increasing wages to just over $10 an hour for all employees. This wage is now substantially higher than the federal minimum wage but still below the $15 an hour rate recommended by many labor activist groups. Review the following information on the recent wage changes:
- In Letter to Associates, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon Announces Higher Pay
- What You Should Know About Walmart's Raise
- Walmart Lifts Its Wage Floor to $9 an Hour
In a paper, respond to the following questions:
- Do you think Walmart raised wages because of supply and demand in the labor market or because of the pressure of labor activist organizations? Explain your reasoning.
- Do you think Walmart should raise wages to $15/hour to match what labor activists are calling for? Why or why not?
- Should the government raise the minimum wage and if so, to what level? Please support your answer.