California voters are set to make a crucial decision in the upcoming election regarding Proposition 32, which proposes raising the state's minimum wage to $18 per hour. If approved, this increase would make California's minimum wage the highest in the United States.
The ballot measure outlines a phased approach, with the minimum wage initially rising to $17 for the remainder of 2024 and then reaching $18 in January for employers with more than 25 workers. Smaller employers would be required to pay a minimum of $17 next year and $18 by 2026, with subsequent adjustments for inflation capped at 3.5% annually.