One of the main points is that VAST majority of people making minimum wage don't need it for survival. They are teenagers who are supported by parents and gaining work experience. I made minimum wage that when adjusted to today's dollars was $7.50/hr when I started working. I tried a lot of different types of jobs, learned about overtime and tips and how they supplement income. When I went into the skilled workforce I had a frame of reference for lower wages + overtime vs. salary (which can be less on an hourly basis). 100% I could not have survived on that $7.50/hr but I saved it up because I was a teenager with no bills. Getting that experience helped me gain skills that I could "charge" for later in life. Those who need it to survive are a minority, perhaps a more targeted approach would be better? One that doesn't cost the MAJORITY the work experience they need.