SACRAMENTO, California. – The minimum wage for fast food workers in California will rise to $20 starting next year, according to an agreement reached between the union and the industry.
The agreement establishes a $5 minimum wage increase for most fast food workers in the Golden State; however, some may be left behind.
The workers who will receive the increase are all those who work in fast food chains, which have at least 60 restaurants spread across the country.
However, the minimum wage increase does not apply to workers in chains that sell bread or operate as bakeries.
According to negotiations, the $5 adjustment for fast food workers will avoid a referendum that will take place in November next year, in general votes.
The $20 salary adjustment will take effect on April 1, 2024, while a Council can propose additional increases through 2029, adjusted for annual inflation.
Currently, fast food workers in California make $15.50 an hour, so the increase comes as a relief.
However, this agreement is different from what was established in a law signed last year by Governor Gavin Newsom, which established the creation of a Fast Food Council.
The new Council only has the power to set wages, but not to define industry labor standards for fast food restaurant workers.
