Readers React: Industry-specific wage increases aren’t sustainable

To the editor: Typically I support higher wages, but when it comes to singling out L.A. hotel workers for a wage boost to $15.37 an hour, I’m with The Times’ editorial board. (“Why single out L.A. hotel workers for a wage boost?,” Editorial, Sept. 22)

When unions had strength and Republicans were more reasonable, too many unions abused bargaining power and sought unreasonable contracts with deleterious effects for all of us. Unthinking politicians are leading the charge for such foolishness again.

A reasonable and measured approach to wage increases, one that will stand without chasing away business, is what we need. There is no doubt whatsoever that wage earners need to close the wealth gaps with corporate executives, but we need a balanced approach that will stand the test of time.

Jim Hoover, Huntington Beach

..

To the editor: Message from the hotel group threatening to sue over the wage increase to American workers:

You shall work for poverty-level wages or not work at all. Take it or leave it, as we are too busy working on inversion to free us from paying taxes to mess with you and your outrageous demands for a living wage.

Allen F. Dziuk, Carlsbad

..

To the editor: The selective wage hike for hotel workers is motivated by the same reason that cities add a room tax to hotel bills: The dollars are “out of town money” provided to the cities by tourists and business travelers, resulting in a win-win for people who live here.

The city gets extra money from workers’ taxes and spending, and both the City Council and labor unions receive praise. What’s next, selective wage increases for tour guides?

Gordon Osbornem, Woodland Hills

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion