The wage increase is due to higher cost of living. Prices have gone up over the decade(s). Rent, Groceries, Utilities and wages have stayed at the same level. Not just in America, Canada as well, just Canada's wages have kept pace with the cost of living, I think it's by law they have to. Plus taxes will play a huge roll as well. The more a person makes the more taxes they also pay as well. I think Canada is better off with our higher wages per hour than America. Pus we get an annual cost of living increase as well, 2 % in most places, which helps on our wages.

It's a catch 22.

The 7.50 to $15 from what I read is a lot... I could see 10-11 dollars per hour. It's America... so I don't expect much to be done.