Employees across the United States are guaranteed a minimum wage for all of the work that they perform.This is stated in The Fair Labor Standards Act Of 1938 where, "Every employer shall pay to each of his employees who in any workweek is engaged in commerce or in the production of goods for commerce, or is employed in an enterprise engaged in commerce or in the production of goods for commerce, wages at the following rates: except as otherwise provided in this section, not less than (A) $5.85 an hour beginning on the 60th day after May 25, 2007; (B) $6.55 an hour, beginning 12 months after that 60th day; and (C) $7.25 an hour, beginning 24 months after that 60th day" (US Dept of Labor, 2011).I agree with this sentiment that there should be a minimum wage that employers must legally pay their workers here in the United States.Too many people in this country do not even earn a decent living wage.These employees do not make enough money to be able to properly sustain themselves and their families.The needs of these workers include being able to pay for their homes, their food, their healthcare benefits, and their childcare among other things.The cost of living in America is always rising; therefore, I believe that the minimum wage must also increase over time."Minimum wage rate should be adjusted from time to time to take account of changes in the cost of living and other economic conditions" (International Journal of Labour Research, 2012).

An appropriate minimum wage can help reduce earnings inequality throughout our nation.It helps redistribute the wealth of society to all its people while providing protection for wage earners to stay above the poverty line.In addition, the minimum wage promotes a high level of productivity and helps these workers stay with their current employers.

I could see how some people are against a set minimum wage, however.There is a fear that it could have an adverse impact on the inner workings of our social security system.In addition, if the minimum wage is set too high, it could be counterproductive by hurting employment and it could create increased inflation among the prices of goods and services.I do not agree that this argument of the minimum wage being an ineffective practice is founded and I believe that it would only lead to increased poverty and poorer living standards in our nation.Having a set minimum wage continues to help promote shared prosperity among workers and their families here in the United States.

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