S.J.’s Measure E gives part-timers a chance

Scott Knies’ visceral letter opposing Measure E (Sept. 7), leads me to refute his arguments. First, Measure E allows part-time employees a chance to work more hours so they can pay the rent and support their families. Measure E applies to large businesses – just 1,200 out of 60,000 firms that pay the city’s business license tax.

The compliance measures are extremely fair. Any business that discovers it’s impractical to comply gets an exemption. There is no penalty for first-time violations; and the San Jose City Council can amend the implementation procedures to assure they are user-friendly.

Finally, when the minimum wage was on the ballot, opponents claimed it would lead to lawsuits. In four years, there have been zero lawsuits under the minimum wage law. Measure E uses the same enforcement mechanism.

Part-time employees, who are overwhelmingly women, deserve a fighting chance to work harder and earn more. Measure E gives them that opportunity.