Here is what is going to happen now

Example:  It used to be that when you applied for a job with a private company, they would ask you what salary you desired.  For example, you would say $15.00 an hour.  The prospective employer would think, well public employees (who have their wages published) are receiving $15.50, and say, okay, how about $14.50?  And you probably said, great, because it was an offer and you already know that it is pretty tough competition for those government jobs. 

Now, you will go and apply for a job with a private employer and tell them you want $15.00 an hour, and he will probably be trying not to laugh in your face, because he knows that wages and benefits are eroding in the public sector and he no longer has to compete with them.  He says $13.00, take it or leave it. 

Now, with no one supporting the wage structure anywhere, MTs making 8 cpl, will probably be willing to take 6 cpl,  those making 5 cpl, will probably take 3 cpl.  Those already making 3 cpl with probably do "internships."

Good luck to you.