California's $20 Minimum Wage Law Triggers Major Job Cuts in Fast-Food Sector

Fast-food chains in California have cut nearly 10,000 jobs and raised prices in response to the state's new minimum wage law.

The law, effective April 1, mandates a $20 hourly wage for fast-food workers at chains with 60 or more locations.
Major chains like McDonald's and Burger King have increased prices and reduced employee hours to offset costs.
Automation and digital kiosks are being rapidly adopted to reduce labor expenses.
Despite job cuts, some restaurant executives note an improvement in the quality of job applicants.
Critics argue the law harms the very workers it aims to help by reducing employment opportunities.