In 2009, Congress raised the federal minimum wage from $5.15 per hour to $7.25. President Biden campaigned on the promise that he would raise the federal minimum wage to $15. Just recently the Rhode Island House passed legislation to raise the minimum wage in the state to $15 gradually over four years.
Catholic Social Teaching teaches that it is in accord with justice to give each person a “just wage.” A just wage includes more than just sufficient food, clothing and shelter. In accord with a person’s dignity the wage should also enable a person a degree of autonomy and security. At the same time the determination of wages must take into account the financial state of the company or place of employment. Finally, in the case of families, a just wage enables a parent to adequately support their family.
Will raising the minimum wage lead to just wages? Not necessarily. Due to the complexity of many factors, laws have limited ability to bring about desirable ends. Critics argue that minimum wage laws price unskilled workers out of the workforce and lead to unemployment. Others argue that minimum wage has not kept pace with inflation. The Church teaches that a worker deserves a just wage. Raising the minimum wage is just one element in that process.
