In a nod to European-style sector-wide collective bargaining, the new law creates a 10-member “Fast Food Council” of employees, franchisees, advocates and government representatives. The council will have the authority to set standards on working hours, conditions — and minimum wages. California’s current minimum wage is $15 per hour for businesses with more than 25 employees, but the council can increase it to as much as $22 in 2023. The law also authorizes counties, or cities with populations of more than 200,000, to create “Local Fast Food Councils,” and it establishes a cause of action for workers facing retaliation or discrimination by an employer. . . .
Meanwhile, other states considering adopting California’s model should listen to concerns from business owners and anxious employees, and find better ways to support vulnerable workers.
Paid for by Save Local Restaurants, a coalition of California small business owners, restaurateurs, franchisees, employees, consumers and community-based organizations. Committee Top Funders: Chipotle Mexican Grill, In-N-Out Burgers, Chick-fil-A.