CA Diners Are Charged “Extra” Fees After Wage Increases and Receive Bills for Meals
Julian Gallardo examined his tab following his supper at Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza in San Diego, California. When he noticed a new price for anything “extra” on his receipt, he became furious.

In San Diego, Julian Gallardo enjoyed a delicious dinner at Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza. He was surprised, though, to see a $3 additional fee on his bill. As to FOX 5, the purpose of this extra charge was to counterbalance the recent hike in California’s minimum wage.

The meal and service were excellent, but he was taken aback by this unanticipated fee. “I didn’t realize I would be spending more,” an obviously irritated Julian remarked. “They ought to have posted a notice outlining this fee or mentioned it up front.” That small surprise soured his whole evening.

The “California Mandate,” an additional fee, assists eateries in covering labor costs that have increased as a result of the recent wage increase. It’s a good idea to check your bill for such charges if you’re dining out in California, especially since the minimum wage is going up.

According to the California Department of Industrial Relations, the minimum wage will rise yearly by small amounts until it hits $15 per hour in 2023. Although there was initial support for this approach, sentiments are shifting as more and more costs are transferred to the consumer.

CEO David Cohn of the Cohn Restaurant Group, which owns Sammy’s, stated, “The surcharge helps offset additional operating expenses and works better than raising prices.” one is not limited to one area of the nation.

The salary hike was met with strong criticism from labor unions and other activist groups. The Restaurant Opportunities Center United’s Jessica Yañez underlined the necessity of increasing the base minimum wage. “Our goal is to do away with the two-tiered wage structure,” she declared. The difficult working conditions that come with receiving tips, such as harassment and discrimination based on gender, are more important than money. Workers ought to have the security that comes with a steady salary.

This extra may become a regular feature at many restaurants as patrons grow accustomed to it. Given that other states are considering raising their minimum wages similarly, this trend may extend beyond California. California’s strategy may spread broadly or act as a cautionary tale to other states considering taking similar actions.