Winged Wheeler

Some links to the BLS database. Nothing below proves that minimum wage laws are hurting unskilled, young, entry-level workers but it would be difficult to argue that they are helping.

http://bls.gov/web/empsit/cpseea09.pdf

The link above is a BLS spreadsheet. The series runs for the last 13 months and is seasonally adjusted. Notice that the top line is total unemployed and has, with some monthly variations, come down by about a million. The 16-19 year old line (directly below the first entry) has varied as well, but there is no downward trend--3/12 is actually a higher number than is 3/11.

http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/youth.pdf

The link above is a BLS analysis of youth unemployment from 8/2011. Here is the opening of the analysis:

To the extent that there has been a recovery in employment in the US economy, it appears that young people have largely been left behind. If someone has a case to be made for factors other than minimum wage I'd be interested in hearing it.

WW

Lab Rat

Judging by the amount of liberal sewage being spewed out in most classrooms nowadays, I would venture to guess that lack of any type of work ethic plays a big part in this equation. Think about it, why put forth any effort through hard work, determination, and innovation when you can invest that energy protesting and demanding that "rich one-percenters" owe you something?

USMCFLYR

Have they really been left behind or are they too busy laying on the couch playing Modern Warfare II on-line with their buddies? I know of some around me who fit that description to a tee
Even the ones looking for a job sometimes act like they are going to be required to stick with it for a few years. WAY TOO PICKY in my opinion and satisfied with sitting at home rather than take it, make some money, and keep looking for that better job.

USMCFLYR

LNL76

Unfortunately, there are many teenagers who feel a minimum wage job is beneath them. They'd rather sit on their asses complaining about being poor, than get a job and make some money. Once again, blame the parents who hand out cash like it's candy, taking away any incentive to gain a little independence and experience in the work force.

Lab Rat

I echo your sentiments. Kids earning their money for chores around the house is a good way to learn about the value of work and how to manage money - from a young age. Allowances do nothing more than mimic welfare.

USMCFLYR

And I echo your sentiments here too Lab Rat - except be careful, because chores are also part of being a responsible party to household duties I believe. Payment for chores ought to be above and beyond those required for 'good order and discipline' (to use an old familiar phrase )

I never really thought about allowance like that - and it didn't have that affect on me with the welfare mentality - but I see where you are going with the idea.

USMCFLYR

Lab Rat

Very good points! Some things should be expected without pay. Other things, above and beyond as you mentioned, do merit reward.