From Los Angeles to Philadelphia, and San Antonio to Cleveland, cities across the country are adopting laws to ensure that when businesses receive taxpayer subsidies they also pay family-supporting wages. Supporters of these laws argue that they are successfully promoting responsible development: workers receive better wages and benefits, private companies compete on a fair playing field, and taxpayers receive good value for their investment. But critics claim that these laws cost cities jobs and create a poor business environment.
Please join the Center for American Progress Action Fund for a lively debate on whether American cities can use these standards to promote sustainable growth. Dr. William Lester will also present new research arguing that wage standards are not job killers.