Letters on Seattle’s Minimum Wage

Emerald Payday

Once again, Seattle’s Democratic leaders have surpassed themselves by establishing a minimum wage of $20.76 per hour (“Seattle eateries consumed,” Jan. 9).

While some individuals may earn higher wages, many more will find themselves with no job since daily operations will struggle to meet such elevated hourly compensation.

A significant number of small businesses will shut down, leading to increased unemployment and a rise in unemployment benefits. The anticipated gains will be severely outweighed by the considerable losses.

Edward J. Roell, Hillsdale, NJ

Metro Mathematics

Rep. Mike Lawler states that the MTA decided to construct Second Avenue subway stations at double the required size, adding an additional $1 billion to the project (“Boss: Just grievance politics,” Jan. 8).

This assertion is incorrect. I was one of the engineering consultants involved in the design of the new line’s stations, and I can attest that his claim is unfounded. How can he determine what is needed, especially given his background in accounting and finance?

Each station was designed in accordance with the latest emergency and normal conditions guidelines, particularly adhering to the most recent National Fire Protection Association standards that regulate pedestrian holding and movement during fire and smoke situations.

If Lawler is comparing these new stations to other outdated ones in the existing system, he is mistaken. The system’s 200-plus other stations are cramped, poorly lit, and potentially hazardous, having been designed and built over a century ago.

Steven Scalici, Staten Island

Methadone as Treatment

In response to your editorial, “Finally Fix ‘The Hub’ ” (Jan. 5).

I would like to clarify that methadone clinics offer lifesaving treatment—including medication, counseling, and other services—for those battling addiction. It is harmful to equate methadone clinics, of which there are eight in the Bronx (not “dozens”), with “drug-fueled depravity.” This fosters the stigma that prevents many individuals from seeking the evidence-based treatments that can save lives. Of the 2.5 million Americans suffering from opioid addiction, only one in five receives effective treatment.

This lack of treatment often stems from negative portrayals in media and widespread misconceptions among the public. Addiction is a disease, and those affected are, fundamentally, people. Please do not discourage seeking treatment.

Allegra Schorr, President, Coalition of Medication-Assisted Treatment Providers and Advocates of New York State, Manhattan

Rudy’s Reckoning

What could possibly justify Rudy Giuliani being fined $148 million for defamation? (“Rudy in contempt,” Jan. 7).

This sum is outrageous; individuals don’t receive such amounts even for significant physical injuries and truly life-altering damages. An appeal is necessary to rectify this situation. These women did not undergo experiences that warranted such a financial penalty. In fact, they seem pleased to harm a man who has contributed vastly to improving this city and country.

Catherine Adago, Manhattan

Concerning Elephants

Tourists should refrain from interacting with elephants (“Tourist, 22, killed by elephant in front of her boyfriend at Thai sanctuary,” Jan. 6).

Elephants have their own unique grooming habits; there is no need for untrained individuals to wash them. Furthermore, if a sanctuary houses only three elephants, are they truly receiving sufficient opportunities for social interaction? Can we genuinely label it a sanctuary?

Bruce Couchman, Ottawa, Canada

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