New minimum wage scale

Here is a proposed new minimum wage scale for the United States, based on the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour:

Tier 1: Entry-Level

• $8.50 per hour (ages 16-18)
• $9.00 per hour (ages 19-20)

Tier 2: Low-Skilled

• $10.50 per hour (ages 21-24)
• $11.50 per hour (ages 25-29)

Tier 3: Skilled

• $13.00 per hour (ages 30-39)
• $14.50 per hour (ages 40-49)
• $16.00 per hour (ages 50-59)
• $17.50 per hour (ages 60 and older)

Tier 4: High-Skilled

• $18.00 per hour (ages 21-24 with a bachelor's degree or higher)
• $20.00 per hour (ages 25-29 with a bachelor's degree or higher)
• $22.50 per hour (ages 30-39 with a bachelor's degree or higher)
• $25.00 per hour (ages 40-49 with a bachelor's degree or higher)
• $27.50 per hour (ages 50-59 with a bachelor's degree or higher)
• $30.00 per hour (ages 60 and older with a bachelor's degree or higher)

This proposed scale takes into account the following factors:

1. Age: As people get older, they tend to have more experience and skills, which justifies higher wages.
2. Education: Those with higher levels of education tend to earn more, so the scale reflects this.
3. Skill level: Jobs that require specialized skills or training, such as healthcare or technology, are worth more than entry-level jobs.
4. Cost of living: The scale takes into account the cost of living in different regions, with higher wages in areas with a higher cost of living.

Keep in mind that this is just a proposed scale and is subject to change based on various factors, including economic conditions, labor market conditions, and social and political considerations.