Health care, minimum wage and the economy on owners’ minds this week
By J.D. Harrison
The Washington Post, Nov 3, 2014
Small business owners represent a particularly active and influential chunk of the electorate, and as they head to the polls this week, they have plenty to consider—the state of the economy, new and looming regulations and legislative initiatives, and the overall political landscape in Washington.
So what will be front and center on their minds when they vote? ...
Elizabeth Valleau, co-owner and chief executive of Empire Mayonnaise Co. in Brooklyn, N.Y.:
“I want lawmakers to increase the minimum wage. We built Empire Mayonnaise from the ground up as a company we could be 100 percent proud of. The ingredients we use, the production process, the quality of the offering and the integrity of the sourcing are all crucial to us — but no less crucial is the respect and appreciation with which we treat our employees. The current minimum wage allows for bare survival, nothing more. Fair wages create a healthier work environment, happier employees and a better product.” ...