Disputes Rise in Los Angeles Over $30 Minimum Wage for Hotel and Airport Workers

The Los Angeles City Council passed an ordinance in May to create a US$30 minimum hourly wage for hotel and Los Angeles International Airport workers by 2028.

However, the legislation, including increased wages for housekeepers, valets, and restaurant workers, kicked off a series of competing ballot propositions that city officials warn could derail city finances and plans for the upcoming Olympic Games in 2028.

The city is juggling a budget crisis, recovery from January’s wildfires, and the ongoing presence of immigration agents.

In June, a business group backed by Delta and United Airlines launched a referendum to repeal the wage increase, gathering thousands of signatures that are currently being verified. In the meantime, the wage increase has not gone into effect.

The hotel workers union Unite Here Local 11 responded with proposals, including increasing the minimum wage citywide and requiring residents to vote on building new hotels and event center developments.