Posted on 09/16/2024
BY THE NUMBERS: A LIVING WAGE FOR TOURISM WORKERS
Over a year ago, we joined many of our colleagues in introducing a $25/hour minimum wage for tourism workers, which would increase gradually to $30/hour by 2028.
By the Numbers
• 6,300 jobs created within the City of Los Angeles as part of the proposed wage increases.
• $1.2 billion projected increase in our region’s GDP thanks to the wage increases.
• $154 million increased income within four years for workers in Los Angeles.
• $3.87/hr increase on average for airport workers, and $6.24/hr increase on average for hotel workers in the first year under the proposal.
• 23,000 workers covered by the increases.
• More than 40% of airport workers and 60% of hotel workers will receive raises.
Key Findings
This independent assessment was conducted by Berkeley Economic Advising and Research, and it came to three key conclusions:
- Workers who would earn higher wages are some of the lowest-wage workers in the city, meaning they are most likely to struggle with paying for rent and groceries.
- The proposed increase would uplift the entire local economy because workers will spend their increased income in our communities.
- Any burden of cost increases will fall predominantly on visitors, rather than LA residents.
What's Next?
The Living Wage Ordinance will be discussed in the Trade, Travel, and Tourism Committee (which we sit on) on September 23, and it will head to the full City Council soon after. Submit a public comment by clicking the pen and paper that says “new” on this website, and stay tuned for more updates soon!
Increasing wages for the tourism workers who make up the backbone of our economy is a step toward providing all workers a living wage – because if you work in LA, you should be able to afford to live in LA.
Two More Quick Hits!
1. Motion Requesting More Street Sweeping for Bike Lanes Passed by Council!
Our motion to identify resources for more frequent street sweeping in bike lanes passed City Council unanimously! The city has specialized street sweepers to clean bike lanes, but because of a lack in city staffing and funding, protected bike lanes only get cleaned a few times a year.
Stay tuned in the coming months as departments work on a full report for the City Council.
2. Come to El Grito this Sunday!
Come to Gloria Molina Grand Park this Sunday from 5pm-11pm for “La Fiesta del Pueblo” – this year’s El Grito celebration of Mexican Independence Day in LA.
The event will include a free concert featuring performances by El Dasa, Lorenzo Mendez, Mariachi Divas, and Julian Torres, as well as a performance of the US National Anthem by Janet Uribe.
In addition to music, this year’s celebration will feature delicious food from local street vendors made possible by Community Power Collective and activities throughout the park!