Many low-wage workers in California hold positions that were regarded as “essential” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

They are often in-home care givers, clerks in retail stores, farmworkers and restaurant workers. The Legislative Analyst’s Office uses the term “low-wage workers” to refer to employees who made up to $17.50 per hour at their main job in 2023. These workers would be affected directly by proposals to increase the statewide minimum wage.