There are many good reasons for raising the Baltimore minimum wage ("Baltimore City Council divided over $15 minimum wage," July 17).
People who make the minimum wage spend practically all of their earnings. An increase in the minimum wage will put money into the Baltimore economy and provide new jobs.
Employers who pay the minimum wage are known for their poor business practices. My college students who worked in these jobs always joked about how badly the businesses were run. Raising the minimum wage will force these businesses to improve their efficiency which can prevent price increases or even lower prices.
Workers making the minimum wage are entitled to many government benefits. Raising the minimum wage will lead to less use of government benefits, saving taxpayers money.
Last, human dignity will be improved. Employers treat higher wage workers with more respect, train them and use their skills more appropriately.
William G. Rothstein, Baltimore