Payam Javan: In a significant move, Governor Gavin Newsom of California has signed a legislation that will elevate the minimum wage for fast-food workers to $20 per hour, starting from April 1, 2024. This increase, sponsored by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden, applies to employees in fast-food establishments with a national presence of at least 60 locations. Notably, restaurants producing and selling their own bread are exempt from this new regulation.

The bill, known as AB 1228, empowers the Fast Food Council to set the minimum wage for fast-food restaurants and provide recommendations on various aspects, including health and safety standards and training. With this wage hike, California now boasts the highest guaranteed base salary in the fast-food industry.

It’s noteworthy that California’s minimum wage for non-fast food workers is already one of the highest in the country at $15.50 per hour. The move aims to provide fairer wages, improved working conditions, and better training, offering a significant step towards empowering fast-food workers in the state.