NY board backs $15 minimum wage hike for fast-food workers; Gov. Cuomo expected to OK increase

Fast-food workers in New York state could end up making $15 an hour, but it might take a few years.

A proposal to set a $15 minimum wage for workers at fast-food restaurants with 30 or more locations was endorsed Wednesday by a state labor board.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whose administration must approve the idea, has signaled his support.

The wage hike would be phased in over three years in New York City and over six elsewhere in the state.

Many workers say the increase would allow them to cope with high costs of living, though restaurant owners say it will lead to higher prices and fewer jobs.

Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles have approved phased-in $15 minimum wages. New York would be the first state to take such a step for a specific industry.