Calif. lawmakers approve wage hike

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California lawmakers on Thursday approved the nation’s highest statewide minimum wage of $15 an hour to take effect by 2022 after it was hailed by Democrats as an example to the nation as it struggles with a growing gap between rich and poor.

The legislation now goes to Gov. Jerry Brown, who says he will sign it into law Monday after previously working out the plan with labor unions.

Brown says the measure approved by the Legislature proves again that California can get things done and help people get ahead.

The state of New York was considering a similar move.