Minimum Wage Bill
California voters reject raising minimum wage to nation-high $18 per hour
Voters in California have rejected a ballot measure that would have raised the state minimum wage to USD 18 per hour by 2026, the highest in the country. Opponents, including the California Chamber of Commerce, said it would have increased costs, led to higher taxes and pushed businesses to cut jobs. "With the economy and costs top of mind for many voters this election, that message appears to have resonated," said Jennifer Barrera, the chamber's president and CEO. Proponents estimated that the measure would have benefited two million workers, including hotel and grocery employees. "Proposition 32's failure to pass is disappointing for all Californians who believe that everyone who works should earn enough to support their families," said Kathy Finn, president of UFCW 770, a Southern California union representing nearly 30,000 workers in various sectors. The current minimum wage rates are USD 16 per hour for most workers and USD 20 in the fast-food sector. The health care sector w
 "California voters reject raising minimum wage to nation-high $18 per hour")
Over 3,000 rules for retail sector to follow, 37% bring risk of jail time
These requirements include maintenance of records, returns, and filings under the Payment of Bonus Act, 1965; Minimum Wages Act, 1948, Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948, among others
 "Over 3,000 rules for retail sector to follow, 37% bring risk of jail time")
Employees may have to wait longer for new wage code rules to kick in
The changes under the new wage code can only be implemented across the country once the centre receives draft guidelines from all the states and UTs
 "Employees may have to wait longer for new wage code rules to kick in")
Success of labour codes depend on implementation of rules, says expert
The Wage Code Bill, 2019, was passed by Parliament last year
 "Success of labour codes depend on implementation of rules, says expert")
Minimum wage for workers likely to increase in next three months
Children education, medical costs set to be included in minimum wage
 "Minimum wage for workers likely to increase in next three months")
Govt should ease law on firing workers, reform labour laws: Panagariya
He said the government's plan to introduce a single minimum wage across the country may hurt businesses in smaller towns
 "Govt should ease law on firing workers, reform labour laws: Panagariya")
Reform or entitlement?
Minimum wage Bill could be counter-productive
