A recent policy change in California has resulted in about half a million fast-food workers earning a minimum of $20 per hour, $4 more than the state’s overall minimum wage. This increase in wages is a result of years-long efforts by workers to improve their working conditions and pay in the fast-food industry. In addition to the wage increase, the new law has established a fast-food council, the first of its kind in the US. This council includes representatives from the restaurant industry and workers and is responsible for annually increasing wages in line with inflation or up to 3.5%.
However, some fast-food franchise owners have expressed concerns about the increased costs associated with higher wages. Some have already raised menu prices or cut worker hours in anticipation of the wage increase. Despite the challenges, franchisees like Michaela Mendelsohn believe that the success of their businesses is tied to the success of their employees. While some are considering implementing new strategies like expanding delivery operations or postponing capital expenses to offset the higher wages, others are concerned about the impact on their businesses and the potential need to reduce labor or raise prices further.
For workers like Jaylene Loubet, the wage increase is a welcomed change. Loubet has been working as a cashier at McDonald’s for six years while attending college and hopes the higher wages will provide some financial security for her family. She and her mother both work in the fast-food industry and have struggled to keep up with the rising cost of living in Los Angeles. Loubet hopes that the new law will not only address wage issues but also improve safety and security standards at fast-food locations.
The newly formed fast-food council aims to address a range of issues, including fair wages, working conditions, and protections against unfair treatment. Workers’ advocates are hopeful that the council will also address concerns about hours, wage theft, and workplace violence. Despite challenges related to rising crime rates and the potential impact on individual restaurant owners, council members like Michaela Mendelsohn are hopeful that the group can come together to find solutions to these complex issues.Overall, the wage increase and establishment of the council represent a significant milestone in the fight for fair wages and improved working conditions in the fast-food industry.
