Overview

• During a California Senate debate, candidates discussed a proposal to raise the minimum wage to $50, sparking a heated exchange.
• Democrat Barbara Lee defended the $50 minimum wage proposal, citing the high cost of living in California and the need for a living wage.
• Republican Steve Garvey and other critics argue that such a significant increase could lead to higher consumer prices and job losses.
• Recent legislation requires a $20 per hour minimum wage at large restaurant chains in California, with some businesses warning of rising costs.
• Economists and studies suggest that raising the minimum wage could result in lower overall compensation and employment for low-wage workers.