I would agree with that. I think there is too much difference between what is a minimum in one state, versus what is a minimum in another state.
The reality is we can't say how much is enough because that depends on a person's circumstances. When I was 20, single, working my way through college and supporting myself, I made $9 an hour. That was enough money to rent an apartment, pay for car insurance, pay a VERY modest car payment, pay utilities, food, HI, etc. When I had roommates I made $7.85 with my shift differential and could also support myself including HI. Both of those rates were over the minimum wage at the time. But, we live in a high COL area. Perhaps the minimum in KY would have been more manageable.
However, that is vastly different than trying to support a family on that without government aid. So, should the minimum be raised so to cover families - or is it incumbent upon the individual to consider their earning potential and abilities as they plan for their futures. I.E. I had no children by choice at 20 because I could not afford them. At 28, married, with my career on track is when I felt like we could afford children.
I don't think minimum wage jobs are intended to be a person's career. If they are - then there is something wrong here. Either the person is a subpar employee OR they lack the education, etc. And, we need to fix those problems if we can. Unfortunately we can't force people to show up to work or be productive when they get there..... so there is only so much we can do. But, I have never known anyone who was an exceptional employee who stayed making the minimum at any business for very long. I personally don't know anyone who can read and write in english who wasn't making the minimum wage after HS.
connie