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The German Parliament has approved the introduction of the country's first national minimum wage, which will guarantee most workers in Europe's biggest economy at least 8.50 euros ($11.60) per hour starting next year.
Merkel's conservatives have gone along with the plan unenthusiastically; for decades, determining wages in Germany has been a matter almost entirely for unions and employers. Under-18s will be exempted, as will the long-term unemployed in the first six months after they return to work.
Lawmakers voted 535-5 with 61 abstentions in favor of the minimum wage on Thursday.
originally posted by: Metallicus
I don't agree with the idea of a 'minimum wage' in general, but it is Germany and they can do what they want. The amount a person pays for workers is usually tied to the quality of workers they want to attract. I pay a high wage to my people to keep them from taking a job somewhere else. I don't think wages need to be mandated by Government.
originally posted by: Xtrozero
I think due to the cost of living in Germany 12 bucks there would be like 5 or 6 bucks here in minimum wages. BTW what job in Germany actually pays that low? Any Germans on this thread?