Dive Summary:
- Senior VP of the National Retail Federation, David French, has spoken out publicly against the proposed ‘living wage’ bill which is gaining steam after being approved by the D.C. council.
- The bill will require large, big-box retail to compensate employees a minimum of $12.60 per hour, according to figures released by Retailing Today.
- Walmart has spoken out publicly against the proposal numerous times, and has reportedly canceled plans for three new stores within the D.C. area following its approval from council members.
From the article:
... While defenders of the bill point out that the living wage is a fair one given cost of living and the still challenging economic climate, Varney says the District, via its council members, is turning down 2,000 jobs and French agrees. The NRF's chief lobbyist pointed out that while "many retailers would love to be in the District of Columbia," (thanks) to the living wage bill, "we [big box retailers like Walmart] can love the District residents from the Maryland and Virginia borders." ...
