California’s New Workplace Laws for 2025

By Eugene Bruno on January 3, 2025

As of January 1, 2025, California has implemented several new workplace laws, including minimum wage increases, expanded leave, and additional safeguards against workplace discrimination and harassment. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the following legislative updates:

• Statewide minimum wage increases
• Expanded protections for victims of crime or abuse
• Prohibition of mandatory workplace meetings on political or religious matters
• Expansion of workplace restraining orders

Statewide Minimum Wage Increases

Effective January 1, 2025, the California state minimum wage increased to $16.50 per hour for all employers, regardless of company size. This adjustment helps reflect the state’s commitment to aligning wages with the cost of living and inflation rates. Also, the minimum annual salary increased to $68,640, double the state minimum wage for full-time employment.

Local jurisdictions may establish higher minimum wage rates. For instance, as of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in San Diego increased to $17.25 per hour.

For salaried computer software employees who qualify as exempt from overtime, the minimum hourly wage has increased to $56.97 per hour or $118,657.43 annually. Check your paystubs to ensure you are being paid in accordance with these new requirements.

Expanded Protections for Victims of Crime or Abuse

Effective January 1, 2025, new workplace accommodations must be made for employees who are survivors of violence or wish to support a family member who is a survivor of violence.

Violence can include domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. This means employees can request time off, schedule changes, or other accommodations for medical treatment to obtain restraining orders or attend court appearances.

The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) will be issuing advice called “Survivors of Violence and Family Members of Victims Right to Leave and Accommodations.”

Prohibition of Mandatory Workplace Meetings on Political or Religious Matters

Effective January 1, 2025, the “Worker Freedom of Speech Act” prohibits employers from forcing employees to attend meetings that communicate the employer’s political or religious views. This includes discussions on union representation. The new law protects employees from coercion and ensures freedom of religion and association in the workplace.

Expansion of Workplace Restraining Orders

Effective January 1, 2025, employers may now be able to obtain temporary restraining orders to prevent workplace violence or threats of violence and workplace harassment. This gives employers a proactive tool to enhance workplace safety and provide greater protection for employees.

Implications for Employers and Employees

These new laws reflect California’s ongoing dedication to fostering a fair and safe work environment. Everyone is encouraged to:

• Review company policies: Ensure your company’s policies align with the new laws, particularly concerning wage adjustments, leave entitlements, and prevention of workplace violence and harassment.
• Educate and train management: Make sure your company is providing updated training to supervisors and HR personnel on the implications of these laws to ensure proper implementation and compliance.
• Know your rights: Be informed about your workplace rights and any changes to company policies resulting from these new laws.

Legal Help Understanding New Laws

With many new laws affecting the workplace, it’s important to stay updated so your company can contribute to an improved work environment. If you have any questions regarding recent laws, call 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688).

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, our attorneys have decades of experience, having been recognized by Expertise.com for our legal insight. Reach out to our San Diego lawyers for more information.