Over the objections of restaurant owners, California legislators approved a plan to give over 500,000 fast-food workers more rights and authority.
The bill formed a 10-member Fast Food Council made up of two state officials, two representatives of companies, and delegates from employees to decide on minimum wages, working hours in California.
There would be a late addition that would freeze the minimum wage rise for fast food workers at chains with more than 100 outlets at $22 an hour beginning in the next year.
"Today was historic," said SEIU President Mary Kay Henry. Californians and Americans can consider this measure a significant improvement.
The law, according to workers who spoke to the Guardian earlier this year, will assist address low pay, unfavourable working conditions, and a lack of safety precautions.
Employee protection is covered by many laws, yet they are not upheld. Although needed, we are abused. We'll be heard with the Fast Recovery Act, said Maria Yolanda Torres, a subway worker, in March.