They have to “make payroll” but couldn’t they cut all employees down to minimum wage? And then promise a performance bonus when money is restored and they have

They have to “make payroll” but couldn’t they cut all employees down to minimum wage? And then promise a performance bonus when money is restored and they haven’t quit. Tech workers are usually at will, no union, so I think salary is completely discretionary. This would be for hours going forward, not the payrolls due for hours already worked.