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What Are My Rights as an Employee in California? (UPDATED FEBRUARY 2023)

California is known for having some of the most employee-friendly laws in the country. From minimum wage to overtime pay, California employment laws aim to protect the rights of workers and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. We will discuss the key employment laws in California that employers and employees should be aware of.

  1. Minimum Wage

In California, the minimum wage is currently $13 per hour for employers with 25 or fewer employees, and $14 per hour for employers with 26 or more employees. The minimum wage is set to increase annually on January 1st until it reaches $15 per hour for all employers in 2023.

  1. Overtimes pay

California law requires employers to pay employees one and a half times their regular rate of pay for all hours worked over 8 in a day, or over 40 in a week. Some employees, including certain salaried executives, administrators, and professionals, may be exempt from overtime pay.

  1. Meal and Rest Breaks

Employers in California must provide non-exempt employees with a 30-minute meal break for every 5 hours worked, and a 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked. Employers must also ensure that employees are not interrupted during their breaks.

  1. Family and Medical Leave

California law requires employers with 50 or more employees to provide eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons, including the birth or adoption of a child, or to care for a family member with a serious health condition.

  1. Discrimination and Harassment

California law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, and other protected characteristics. Employers must also take steps to prevent and address harassment in the workplace.

  1. Pregnancy Disability Leave

Employers in California must provide eligible employees with up to 4 months of leave for pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions. Employers must also provide reasonable accommodations for employees with pregnancy-related disabilities.

  1. Wage Theft Prevention Act

The Wage Theft Prevention Act requires employers to provide employees with a written notice of their rate of pay, designated payday, and information about any applicable overtime pay. Employers who violate the Act can face significant fines and penalties.

  1. Paid Sick Leave

California law requires employers to provide eligible employees with up to 24 hours (3 days) of paid sick leave per year. Employees can use sick leave for their own medical needs or to care for a family member.

California employment laws aim to protect the rights of workers and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. If you have any questions about California employment laws or if you feel like your rights have been violated, schedule a free consultation today.

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