San Diego labor unions urge city to require $25 minimum wage for hotel and service employees

Labor unions in San Diego are pushing for a significant increase in the minimum wage for service workers, with a proposed raise to $25 an hour. This move, led by unions representing hotel, janitorial, and convention workers, aims to address the financial struggles faced by lower-paid employees in the city.

The proposed San Diego Service Worker Minimum Wage Ordinance would impact a wide range of industries, including hotels, convention centers, and tech companies. Union members are planning a march to City Hall to draw attention to the issue and advocate for fair wages for all service workers.

While the hotel industry has expressed concerns about the potential impact of higher wages on their businesses, labor leaders argue that raising hourly pay will reduce turnover and make it easier to recruit and retain workers. The push for higher wages for service workers is part of a larger trend in California, where other cities have already implemented similar measures to increase pay for hospitality industry employees.

Despite some opposition and concerns about the economic impact of raising the minimum wage, labor unions are determined to fight for fair compensation for service workers in San Diego. The proposed ordinance could potentially go before the City Council for consideration in the near future, with implementation as early as January 1.