The Fast Food Wage Board has unanimously voted to recommend an increase the minimum wage paid to fast food workers to $15 per hour, with the increase to be phased in by annual increments by December 31, 2018 in New York City, and by July 1, 2021 in the rest of the state. The Wage Board’s decision is considered a victory by elated fast food workers who, despite working a full time schedule, can still depend on and qualify for public assistance because their annual wages are below the poverty level.
In May of this year, Governor Andrew Cuomo directed the Labor Commissioner to form the Fast Food Wage Board to investigate a wage increase for fast food workers in the State of New York. The Fast Food Wage Board is made up of three individuals, representing the interests of the workers, the restaurants, and the public. The recommendation of the Fast Food Wage Board to increase fast food wages is expected to receive the approval of the Labor Commissioner.
As the State raises the minimum wage in one industry alone, challenges to the increase in fast food wages from the restaurant industry are almost certain.
Alanna C. Iacono is an associate practicing real estate law, concentrating on commercial and residential real estate transactions, landlord-tenant, foreclosure and condominium/HOA law. She can be reached by phone at 866-303-9595 toll free or 845-764-9656 and by email.
