The Owen Sound Chamber of Commerce says if the province phased in the proposed minimum wage increase over five years, instead of 15 months, the risk of job losses would decrease by 74% in the first two years.
The Owen Sound Chamber says two major reports commissioned by The Ontario Chamber of Commerce capture concerns employers have with Bill 148.
The Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis report found that despite a proposed $11-billion wage stimulus package, a remaining $12-billion burden will lead to lost jobs, added costs and damage to the economy.
The report was peer-reviewed by a leading University of Toronto Economist.
And a group called the Keep Ontario Working coalition released a second report featuring employer testimonials outlining some serious consequences to their business and community.
The Chambers and Coalition want the province to consider the reports and conduct their own risk analysis.