So this is the "cost" to governments.  Why are we ignoring the benefits?  Those earning minimum wage and up to perhaps 50% more will be less likely to live in poverty and to consume public subsidies.  They will spend more money in their communities and create more profits for local businesses.  Those businesses will pay higher taxes on those profits.  The higher taxes will offset the increased costs of paying low-wage workers.  Will there be a net cost or a net benefit to government?  I don't think we know the answer.  Let's not rely on one side of the equation without considering the other.