To the Point
Is It Time to Increase the Minimum Wage?
Is it a stimulus program or lost jobs and hard times for small business? Some cities, states and even big companies are increasing wages as debate goes on in Washington.
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenAdvocates for increasing the federal minimum wage call it a "stimulus program" paid for, not by government, but the private sector. Opponents warn of lost jobs and hard times for small business. We hear that some cities, states — and even some big companies — are increasing wages as debate goes on in Washington. Also, Secretary Hagel proposes cuts to the Defense budget. On today's Talking Point, what's next for Ukraine? We hear the latest from Kiev and Moscow.
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In this episode
3 storiesHagel Proposes Cuts to Defense Budget
Pentagon spending on personnel has skyrocketed since September 11. Robert Gates, former Defense Secretary for both George W. Bush and Barack Obama, calls the inability to reduce it one of his "biggest failures." Now, the current Secretary, former Senator Chuck Hagel, says the time has come .
Read the story8 minIs It Time to Increase the Minimum Wage?
President Obama wants Congress to " give America a raise ." But Republicans say it would be a disaster for small business. But, even if Washington fails to increase the minimum wage, states and cities already are acting on their own, along with a major employer: Gap clothing.
Read the story34 minTurmoil in Ukraine Brings a Challenge to Russia
Over the weekend, the Ukrainian Parliament ousted President Viktor Yanukovych, who fled to the Eastern part of the country, raising fears that the country might come apart, with half leaning toward Western Europe and half toward traditional ties with Russia.
Read the story10 min
