[_jal]

Complying with minimum-necessary legal obligations is insufficient to not be considered a jerk. There are many jerky things one can do that aren't illegal.

Stiffing someone, legally or not, because you'd like to see the renumeration system under which they're paid change is obnoxious. You're not sending a message[1] and you're not applying pressure where it could influence change[2]. You're underpaying someone who can't afford it, and have no room complain when people notice what you're doing. I personally do believe it reflects on character.

[1] Well, you are... just not the one you intended.

[2] To be clear, I'd love to see tipping go away, too.