The Effects of Minimum Wage Increases on Retail Employment and Hours: New Evidence from Monthly CPS Data

摘要: Proponents of state and federal minimum wage increases argue that past hikes have not adversely affected retail employment. However, the existing empirical evidence is mixed. This study uses monthly data from 1979–2004 Current Population Survey to provide new estimates effect on employment hours worked. The findings suggest modest adverse effects. A 10% increase in associated with a 1% decline trade usual weekly Larger negative effects are observed for least experienced workers sector. These results robust across number specifications, but sensitive controls time trends.