Ballot Measures

Proposition 4 On Ballot

Raises California's Minimum Wage To $20 Per Hour By 2028 And Establishes Annual Cost-of-living Adjustments

Election

November 2026 California General Election 
(Nov 3, 2026)

Jurisdiction

State • California

Election Type

General

Source Disclaimer

Source Disclaimer

The information on this page — including summaries, "what your vote means" explanations, and arguments for and against each measure — is drawn directly from official State, County, or City election materials, such as the Official Voter Information Guide and county election offices, and is presented here for informational purposes only. Any opinions expressed on this site are clearly marked as Editorial and are distinct from this official source material. Links to outside websites are provided solely as a convenience for further research; SAJ Studios does not create, edit, or verify that third-party content, and each linked source is solely responsible for the accuracy and views expressed on its own site. We encourage voters to consult their official county elections office or the Secretary of State for the most current and authoritative information before voting.

Summary

Gradually increases the statewide minimum wage to $20 per hour by January 2028, with annual increases tied to inflation thereafter, and applies to all employers regardless of size.

Fiscal Impact

Increased state government payroll costs of several hundred million dollars annually for state employees and contractors; increased tax revenue from higher wages partially offsetting costs.

What Your Vote Means

YES
A YES vote gradually raises California's minimum wage to $20 per hour by January 2028, with annual cost-of-living adjustments afterward, applying to employers of all sizes statewide.
NO
A NO vote keeps the current minimum wage schedule in place, without the scheduled increase to $20 per hour or the annual inflation-based adjustments proposed by this measure.

Arguments

Pro
Supporters argue the current minimum wage has not kept pace with California's cost of living, and that a higher wage floor reduces reliance on public assistance programs and boosts local economic activity.
CON
Opponents argue mandated wage increases raise costs for small businesses, could accelerate automation and reduce entry-level job availability, and would be better addressed regionally rather than statewide.

Arguments on this page are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency.

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