[hacknat]

> If this were really so why would there be a schedule to phase it in slowly over 7 instead of immediately? I think part of the reason is that it is expected for natural monetary inflation to cancel out the effect of the min wage increase. If we assume 2% target inflation from the FED then that would be a 15% reduction in buying power of the dollar, reducing the burden on businesses for the increase in wage price.

All things being equal? Come on...I doubt it. The inflation will certainly be a bit of help to the businesses, but don't forget that the status quo has been raising the minimum wage piecemeal, and the Washington minimum wage is at quite a differential from Seattle. Also, don't forget that once Seattle's minimum wage is in full effect it's chained to the CPI, so it's not just a raise on the minimum wage it's a permanent minimum wage.