By Matt Acuña Buxton
Alaska Current, November 6, 2024
Alaska voters have approved an initiative to raise the minimum wage to $15 and guarantee sick leave for most employees. ... The measure had broad support from labor groups and a small business coalition of more than 130 businesses heading into election day. Supporters argued that a higher minimum wage is better for workers and, in turn, better for businesses because there’s more money circulating in the community.
“I hear from business owners all the time who know that for their business to succeed, they need a solid customer base,” said Derrick Green, the owner of East Anchorage’s Waffles and Whatnot, in a prepared statement following the measure’s approval. “More income circulating throughout our communities strengthens our customer base and our economy. And I know as a restaurant owner, it makes more sense to have better wages and low employee turnover than low wages and high turnover. Enacting Ballot Measure 1 will help our businesses and communities thrive.” ...