Los Angeles, California — City officials are examining a potential wage increase that could reshape the construction industry and housing development landscape across Los Angeles. The City Council has voted unanimously to move forward with a comprehensive study exploring how higher minimum wages for construction workers could affect the local economy, employment rates, and housing supply.
Council to Review Impact of Proposed Wage Increase
The Los Angeles City Council approved a motion instructing staff to assess the impact of raising the minimum wage for construction workers involved in mid-size residential projects. Introduced by Councilmember Curren Price and co-sponsored by several colleagues, the proposal seeks to increase hourly pay from $18 to $32.50, plus an additional $7.65 per hour health care credit.
The study will assess how the wage increase might influence development costs, employment, and the regional economy. It will focus on residential projects under 85 feet with 10 or more housing units.
City officials emphasized that higher wages could help attract skilled labor amid a growing housing demand and rebuilding efforts following incidents like the Palisades Fire. The review will also consider feedback from construction trade groups, unions, and developers.
Ensuring Fair Pay: Understanding California’s Wage Protections
For construction workers in California, a potential wage increase means more than just higher pay — it’s about protecting legal rights and ensuring fair treatment under state law. California’s Labor Code and Wage Orders already safeguard against wage theft and unfair practices, and this proposal could strengthen those protections for residential construction workers.
Workers should understand that:
- You are legally entitled to be paid at least the established minimum wage for your trade and region.
- Overtime and meal/rest break laws still apply regardless of wage increases.
- Wage theft claims can be filed if an employer fails to pay the required hourly rate, health credits, or benefits.
- Legal assistance from an employment lawyer can help recover unpaid wages and enforce your rights.
If you believe you are being underpaid or denied fair compensation, consulting a Los Angeles employment lawyer can help you understand your options and take action to protect your livelihood.
Know Your Worth — and Let Us Help Protect It
Understanding how a wage increase may affect your business, employment rights, or compensation can be complex. Our employment lawyers in Los Angeles provide legal guidance to workers navigating California’s evolving wage laws.
Contact us today for a free consultation if you believe you’ve experienced wage theft, wrongful termination, or any violation of labor laws. We’re here to help you stay informed and protected under the law.
