SW Riverside News

Restaurant owners and workers in California are bracing themselves for the impact of a new minimum wage hike that goes into effect today. The wage increase is expected to lead to higher prices for consumers and potential job losses in the industry.

According to Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones, the wage hike could result in fast food items being sold at higher prices, with robots potentially replacing workers. Jones blamed Governor Newsom, Democrat lawmakers, and special interests for the potential mass layoffs and business closures.

Caucus Chair Kelly Seyarto expressed concerns about the consequences of the new law, stating that it could harm small business owners and employees, further exacerbating inflation in California.

Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh highlighted the challenges faced by families in affording to live in the state, emphasizing the need to lower living costs and boost opportunities for growth.

Senator Brian Dahle, a small-business owner himself, voiced his concerns about the difficulties of operating in California. He criticized the wage hike as a victory for labor bosses that would hinder economic mobility and force businesses to make tough decisions like reducing hours or automating services.

Dahle had previously urged Governor Newsom to veto the bill, expressing his belief that the legislation would harm California's economy and entrepreneurial spirit.

The minimum wage increase comes at a time when California holds the top spot in the country for unemployment, adding further pressure to an already challenging economic environment for businesses in the state.