August 6, 2024 ~ Lucy Ann Lance talks with Paula Gardner, Business Editor, Bridge Michigan. The Michigan State Supreme Court has mandated an increase in the minimum wage from $10.33 to potentially over $12 per hour and plans to phase out the lower minimum wage for servers, which is currently $3.93 per hour. This ruling, originating from a blocked ballot proposal in the mid-2010s, raises concerns about the economic viability of restaurants, with some fearing significant menu price increases and closures. The restaurant industry, already struggling post-COVID-19, faces challenges in hiring and maintaining profitability, with 40% of independent restaurants reportedly unprofitable.