California Raises Minimum Wage to $20/hr for Fast-Food Workers, Highest in the Nation

• California is raising minimum wage for fast-food workers to $20/hr starting April 1, highest in the U.S.

• Fast-food chains have seen booming earnings recently, with menu prices far outpacing inflation over the past decade.

• Some owners warn of job losses, reduced hiring, and 10% price hikes to offset increased labor costs.

• Advocates say higher wages will help low-paid workers and stimulate economic growth, though impact on jobs is debated.

• Average fast-food worker age is 26; higher pay puts them above poverty line and depends less on teenagers.