A proposal appearing on the November ballot aims to raise the minimum wage in Albuquerque by a dollar and establish automatic increases in the future to keep up with inflation.
The Albuquerque Journal reports that the measure would raise the minimum wage to $8.50 per hour.
Supporters say the proposal would boost economic activity by putting more money in the hands of low-income workers, provide extra income to people in need and return profits to workers rather than sending money to out-of-state corporations.
Opponents say the proposal would hurt businesses, make Albuquerque less competitive by discouraging companies from expanding or relocating to the city and result in higher prices, job losses and reduced hours for employees.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.