A panel created by Governor Cuomo is recommending a $15 an hour minimum wage for fast-food chain restaurants in New York state.

loading...

Bob Joseph/WNBF News [file][/caption]The Cuomo wage board made the recommendation Wednesday afternoon. The state Department of Labor would have to authorize the action before it is implemented.

If the measure receives final authorization, the higher minimum wage would take full effect in most of the state in six years. Under the plan, the $15 an hour minimum would go into effect in New York City in 2019. Incremental hikes would occur before the final increase occurs.

The new fast-food minimum wage rules will apply to chains which operate more than 30 restaurants.

New York state's current minimum wage is $8.75 an hour.

The governor empaneled the three-member wage board after the state legislature failed to agree on a revised minimum wage package.

Restaurant operators and business organizations had fought the special minimum wage treatment for fast-food workers.

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

More From KISS 104.1