Greg Moore, a former Representative of New Hampshire, said that higher minimum wages reduce jobs and disproportionately impact unskilled workers and those leaving the justice system. This statement was made on the social media platform X.
“Raising minimum wages kills jobs,” said Moore. “It’s always been true, but remember that the hardest hit are the unskilled and those coming out of the justice system. That has other, negative societal consequences.”
California’s $20 minimum wage for fast food workers took effect in 2024 amid significant legislative debate. Lawmakers have argued that the measure would lead to higher living standards, while critics have warned of potential higher costs and job losses. According to CalMatters, New Hampshire legislators remain divided over adopting a similar policy due to concerns about economic competitiveness and local business impacts.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that California’s fast food sector lost approximately 9,500 jobs from March to June 2024 following the enactment of the $20 minimum wage law. Businesses cited rising labor costs and automation as primary reasons for staff reductions.
A report by the Economic Policy Institute in 2024 indicated that states with recent minimum wage increases—such as California, Illinois, and New York—experienced a short-term dip in employment for unskilled and formerly incarcerated workers. However, employment levels stabilized or rebounded after 12 to 18 months.
Ballotpedia notes that Greg Moore is a former New Hampshire House Representative and policy director for Americans for Prosperity. He is known for advocating against minimum wage hikes and supporting limited government and free-market principles in economic policy.
