A week ago, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo set the table for increased labor costs in the fast food industry with his edict (published as a NY Times Op-ED) instructing a state Wage Board to make recommendations on increasing the state minimum wage for fast food workers.  This week, we were served the first course as alleged fast food workers and labor advocates rallied in Albany to “celebrate” the first meeting of the Wage Board.  Chaired by Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, the Board met in New York City for the first of several meetings they will hold around the state over the next few months before making their recommendation to the Governor.  The State Assembly passed a minimum wage raise on May 4th to $10.50 per hour effective December 31, 2016, then to $11.55 on December 31, 2017, and finally to $12.60 per hour on December 31, 2018.  Notwithstanding that fact, the Wage Board’s recommendations do not need legislative approval, so you can count on a higher state mandated minimum wage for fast food workers this summer!