California is asking voters if the minimum wage should increase. In November, people will vote on whether to raise the minimum wage to $18 per hour by 2026. This would make it the highest minimum wage in the United States.
Currently, the minimum wage in California is $16. If voters agree, it will go up to $17 next year for big businesses and $18 in 2025. Small businesses will also raise wages but later. Some say this will help workers pay for their needs in an expensive state.
However, some business owners are worried. They think that raising wages quickly will be hard for them. They fear that it could lead to higher prices for customers or even job losses.
Many workers in low-paying jobs are not students. Some are older adults who need good pay. Workers are asking for better wages to support their families.
Some say the new wage might still not be enough to live in California. Many people are worried about money. They want to earn enough to live well.
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Vocabulary List:
- Minimum /ˈmɪ.nɪ.məm/ (adjective): The least amount or lowest level possible.
- Increase /ɪnˈkriːs/ (verb): To make something greater in size amount or degree.
- Expensive /ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/ (adjective): Requiring a lot of money; costly.
- Support /səˈpɔːrt/ (verb): To provide assistance or help to someone or something.
- Wages /ˈweɪ.dʒɪz/ (noun): The money paid to workers for their labor.
- Concerns /kənˈsɜːrnz/ (noun): Worries or issues that need attention.
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