Starting Monday, fast food workers are going to get paid a minimum of $20 an hour, up from $16, in accordance with a new statewide law.
Restaurants covered under the new law have to meet the following criteria: first, they have to have limited table service; second, they have to be part of a chain of at least 60 restaurants nationwide; and third, they have to be selling food and drinks that are available for immediate consumption.
Some opponents of the law say that the higher wage might mean layoffs or fewer hours for workers. Supporters, like San Jose’s South Bay Labor Council, say the law will be a job creator. Workers, who do worry about the impact it will have on their employers, say they need the money to keep up with the rising costs of living.
The law also requires the state to set up a Fast Food Council. The Council will be able to make future increases to the minimum wage and adopt other employment standards for fast food workers. Members were appointed by Governor Newsom at the beginning of this month. They represent the fast-food industry, franchisees, restaurant owners, employees, and worker advocates.
The state’s minimum wage for all other workers remains $16-an-hour.
