About this guide
livingwageact.com explains California's minimum wage in plain language: how the statewide rate is set, where higher local and industry rates apply, and what happened to the Living Wage Act, which voters considered as Proposition 32 in November 2024. The guide is written for workers, small employers, students and anyone following wage policy who wants the facts in one place without campaign messaging from either side.
Where the figures come from
Wage rates, the inflation formula and fast food rules follow the published guidance of the California Labor Commissioner's Office. The description of Proposition 32 and its fiscal effects follows the analysis of the Legislative Analyst's Office. Election results and qualification dates come from official state reports, and summaries of campaign arguments are based on nonpartisan voter guides.
Figures are current as of 2026. Rates change every January, so anyone making payroll decisions should confirm the numbers with the official state and local sources.
What this site does not do
This is not a campaign, advocacy or government website. We do not endorse or oppose any ballot measure or candidate, do not ask for donations, signatures or votes, and do not collect names, e-mail addresses or other personal data. Nothing here is legal, tax or payroll advice.