Mayor Garcetti for Raise the Wage LA. (Haiphie Hua/Neon Tommy)

“Today, I’m proud that we are launching largest anti-poverty program in this city’s history,” said the Mayor. 

 Mayor Garcetti plans to increase the current minimum wage of $9 to $13.25 over a three years span. 

Home Health caretaker Sandra Dee Williams said “it’s been rough on my money. I would have to rob Peter to pay Paul and I feel I shouldn’t have to do that.  She added, “I do honest work of living and I love doing what I do and we have to work extra hard.”

Encino resident and 98 Cents Discount World store owner Navide Mahgerefteh says with the minimum wage increase initiative, “there is no way they're able to pay their employees. He added, “either they’re going to close down stores or they’re going cut their hours.”

Councilmember Tom LaBonge for District 4 says the following:

“I will be reviewing everything in regards to this proposal. Youth wages should also be fully debated. As Councilmember, I will take into consideration the small businesses in my district. After all, small businesses are the backbone of our local economy.”