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California's $20 Minimum Wage Boosts Pay, Prices Rise 1.5%

4/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

University of California researchers report that California's $20 minimum wage for fast-food workers, implemented in 2024, did not reduce employment and increased prices by about 1.5%.
The study estimates about 525,000 employees are affected, with an average wage increase of over 10%.
Although critics predicted severe consequences, the research suggests the wage law improved workers' lives, with many earning above the previous $16 minimum.

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Story summary

University of California researchers report that California's $20 minimum wage for fast-food workers, implemented in 2024, did not reduce employment and increased prices by about 1.5%.
The study estimates about 525,000 employees are affected, with an average wage increase of over 10%.
Although critics predicted severe consequences, the research suggests the wage law improved workers' lives, with many earning above the previous $16 minimum.