Effective April 1, 2024, fast food restaurant workers in California working at a “national fast-food chain” establishment must be paid a minimum of $20 per hour. The change is a result of legislation (Assembly Bill 1228) that was enacted in 2023.

California’s Civil Rights Division (CRD) has released updated frequently asked questions, templates, and a user guide for the 2023 pay data reporting period for employers with 100 or more employees. Employers must use the CRD’s online pay data reporting portal to submit their annual reports. The portal is open. The reporting deadline for 2023 is May 8, 2024.

California has enacted legislation that requires employers with 5 or more employees to provide time off to employees who experience a covered reproductive loss event. The requirement takes effect Jan. 1, 2024, and is separate and distinct from the state’s bereavement leave and other leave requirements.

The California Department of Industrial Relations has released an updated model wage theft notice to reflect changes that take effect Jan. 1, 2024.

The California Department of Industrial Relations has updated guidance to address the expansion of the state’s paid sick leave law that takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

California has enacted legislation that significantly expands a requirement for employers to notify employees about federal and state earned income tax credits (EITCs). The changes are effective with notices furnished on or after Jan.  1, 2024.

The California Department of Industrial Relations has announced an increase to the pay rates that computer software employees and physicians must receive in order to be exempt from overtime. Additionally, the minimum salary required for the administrative, professional, and executive overtime exemptions will also increase. These new rates take effect on Jan. 1, 2024.