California's Minimum Wage and New Laws Impact Fast Food Restaurants, Energy Policy, and Employer Pricing

California's new minimum wage is set to increase menu prices in fast food restaurants, according to one restaurant chain. Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta have filed a lawsuit against oil and gas companies in California, claiming deception about the risks of fossil fuels. Chipotle and McDonald's plan to raise prices in California next year in response to the state's minimum wage hike. California has also increased the number of paid sick leave for employees and passed significant laws affecting California employers in 2024, with a focus on worker protection.