The People Defeat Wal-Mart

Maryland legislated that Wal-Mart pay at least 8% of their payroll on employee health benefits. This is a victory for working people.

In fact, when my plumber recently charged $1,000 to install low-flush toilets, I told him, "Sorry, but I shall pay you only $920, and send the remaining $80 to your dentist to retain for your next tooth cleaning." Of course, he was grateful, and viewed this as a personal victory.

But I wonder: Why only 8%? Nothing is more important than health care, so why not 10% or 20%? Or, for that matter, why not 100%? Wouldn't it be prudent to force all employers to pay all wages in the from of health benefits?