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California Minimum Wage Jump to $17.40, Highest by 2027

8/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that California’s minimum wage will rise to $17.40 per hour on 1 January 2027.
The increase will make California’s statewide minimum wage the highest, surpassing Washington’s projected $17.13 minimum in 2027.
Newsom said the hike counters federal inaction, noting the federal minimum has stayed at $7.25 since 2009.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton called the policy an “attack on workers” that will “crush small businesses” on social media.

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Story summary

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that California’s minimum wage will rise to $17.40 per hour on 1 January 2027.
The increase will make California’s statewide minimum wage the highest, surpassing Washington’s projected $17.13 minimum in 2027.
Newsom said the hike counters federal inaction, noting the federal minimum has stayed at $7.25 since 2009.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton called the policy an “attack on workers” that will “crush small businesses” on social media.