McDonald’s president criticizes California’s proposal to raise the minimum wage: “Bad policy on good policy”
‘The Next Revolution’ host Steve Hilton reacts to a California proposal that would raise the minimum wage for fast food workers to $22 an hour and discusses a lawsuit targeting social media over mental health issues.
As part of a California law facing voters on the November 2024 ballot, lawmakers are pushing to increase the minimum salary for fast food workers from $15.50 to $22 per hour. However, one fast food president expressed concern about the policy.
“Whether you’re a legislator, business owner or leader, or an everyday voter, one thing is clear: California has become a dramatic case study in putting bad policies before good,” the McDonald’s USA president wrote. , Joe Erlinger, in an open letter on Wednesday. .
The proposed legislation would not only raise the minimum wage, which would affect other major chains including Starbucks, but would also seek to improve working conditions.
“The Next Revolution” host Steve Hilton echoed Erlinger’s remarks while on “Varney and company” Friday.
CALIFORNIANS PLACE FAST FOOD LAW ON 2024 BALLOT
McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger shared his position on a California proposal to raise the minimum wage to $22 per hour for fast food workers. (iStock/iStock)
“McDonald’s offers, like many restaurants in that category, a fantastic first job, a move up the ladder for people. And that’s a great thing for our country,” he said. “What you do when you put these absolutely absurd and unrealistic requirements is just take people’s jobs. You’re already seeing McDonald’s and other restaurants increase automation because it’s cheaper. This will only speed that up, not just in the service counter, but in the kitchen”.
Hilton highlighted the concerns of many opponents of the law, which was locked in December 2022 by a Sacramento County Superior Court judge while ballot signatures were counted and verified. The referendum gathered more than 623,000 valid voter signatures.
Opponents such as Erlinger and Hilton argue that the law would burden restaurant chain franchise owners and increase the cost of food.
“Exactly as he said, you’ve got crazy politics on top of sensible politics. It’s a great summary of what’s going on in every area here in California,” Hilton said.
The law, if approved by the voters, would establish a 10-member council empowered to set minimum wages and standards for working hours and conditions for California fast food workers.
Two industry groups, the International Franchise Association and the National Restaurant Association, promoted the referendum that would leave their fate to the voters.
Despite the opposition, the president of the Service Employees International Union, Mary Kay Henderson, explained in a statement that she remains confident that California voters will approve the law.
Apple-Metro Chairman and CEO Zane Tankel discusses California’s effort to rein in fast food wages and how the restaurant industry has rebounded from the COVID pandemic in ‘Cavuto: Coast to Coast.’
“Despite the efforts of fast food corporations to distort the referendum process, we know california voters see through their tricks,” Henderson said in a statement. “No corporation is more powerful than half a million workers coming together to demand a seat at the table.”
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Hilton added to his criticism of the legislation that raising the minimum wage could make fast food workers earn more than some teachers.
“It depends on the exact location, but it’s not impossible.”
Voters will have plenty of time to make their decision on the legislation, as it won’t be available for a vote until November 5, 2024.
FOX Business’ Ken Martin contributed to this report.