Know Your Rights: California’s New Workplace Protections for 2025

Mar 18

As of January 1, 2025, several new employment laws have taken effect in California, enhancing worker protections and benefits. If your employer is not adhering to these regulations, WorkRight Law is here to help you fight for your rights. Below is a summary of key changes, along with relevant dates and legal citations:

1. Minimum Wage Increase

• Statewide Minimum Wage: The minimum wage has increased to $16.50 per hour for all employers, regardless of size.

• Fast-Food Workers: A specific minimum wage of $20.00 per hour has been established for non-exempt employees in the fast-food industry.

(Legal Citation: California Labor Code Sections 1182.12 and 1182.13)

2. Expanded Paid Sick Leave

• Safe Leave Expansion: Employees can now use paid sick leave for “qualifying acts of violence,” including domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or acts involving bodily injury or death. The definition of “family member” has also been broadened to align with the California Family Rights Act (CFRA).

• Agricultural Workers: Outdoor agricultural employees are entitled to use paid sick leave to avoid smoke, heat, or flooding conditions resulting from local or state emergencies, including worksite closures.

(Legal Citations: Assembly Bill No. 2499 and Senate Bill No. 1105)

3. Discrimination Protections

• Local Enforcement: Cities, counties, or political subdivisions can now enforce their own employment discrimination laws if certain conditions are met, including the issuance of a right-to-sue notice by the California Civil Rights Department (CRD).

(Legal Citation: Senate Bill No. 1340)

4. Paid Family Leave

• Vacation Usage: Employers can no longer require employees to use up to two weeks of vacation before receiving Paid Family Leave benefits. This change applies to periods of disability commencing on or after January 1, 2025.

(Legal Citation: Assembly Bill No. 2123)

5. Child Labor Laws

• Updated Regulations: New laws have been enacted to update the hours minors are allowed to work, specify additional prohibited occupations, and add provisions prohibiting discrimination and retaliation. These changes took effect on January 1, 2025.

(Legal Citation: Senate Bill No. 3646)

How WorkRight Law Can Help You

If your employer is not complying with these laws or you believe your rights are being violated, WorkRight Law is here to provide you with aggressive representation. With nearly two decades of experience in employment litigation, we specialize in standing up for employees against unfair treatment, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

Contact us today. Call us at (562) 760-8803 or visit WorkRightLaw.com for a free consultation. Let us help you fight for the justice and fairness you deserve.