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It’s been a controversial topic – increasing the minimum wage for what some call low-level jobs. But as Matt Galka tells us, a new study says the low wages that many Floridians are making are costing the rest of the taxpayers billions.

Patricia Walker is a Tampa home care worker making minimum wage. It’s not easy for the mother of two.

“I take care of my clients and make sure they have food, but then I need to go home and open my refrigerator to see what I got to eat,” she said.

Walker pleaded with state legislators to raise the minimum wage to 15 dollars so she and many others around the state can live without assistance.

“We give our heart to our clients or our customers in whatever we do. But who’s gonna support us? Who’s gonna help us out,” she said.

A new study from Florida State University economics professor Patrick L. Mason says that the low wage earners are draining every other tax payer throughout the state.

“10 programs you calculate the total amount that is going to low-wage workers and that’s where the $11.4 billion dollars comes from,” said Mason.

State Democrats filed bills to increase the state’s current 8 dollar and five cents minimum wage.

“Why is it you’re working two or three jobs why is it you’re having to depend on food stamps why is it you’re depending on agencies to make sure you have a quality of life,” said Orlando Democrat Rep. Victor Torres, the House bill’s sponsor.

Even supporters say that it could all just be wishful thinking as the Republican control legislature has no plans to push for a $15 minimum wage.

Bills raising the minimum wage have yet to be heard in both the House and the Senate.

The report is backed by the SEIU public service labor union.