I actually don't disagree with you on the relative efficacy of the minimum wage vs. tax mechanisms that are well-targeted.  The problem, and it's a huge one, is that any such tax mechanisms can be paid for only two ways: 1) cutting existing government services, meaning things like health care and education, and 2) increasing taxes on somebody else.  As you know, increasing taxes requires a 3/5 majority in both houses of the legislature plus the governor's signature, plus a likely referral to the voters.  Without the support of the large business groups, that's nearly impossible to do, and those groups have so far not been enthusiastic about paying more taxes, even when they would help pay for improving the education system they keep wanting to provide more funds to.  Increasing the minimum wage is at least politically feasible, and even somewhat popular.  When all else fails.......