2024 promises to be a year of significant legal changes that will impact businesses of all sizes. Understanding these changes is essential to ensure compliance and minimize risk.
October 14 is the last day for Governor Newsom to sign or veto bills that were passed by the Legislature and in the Governor’s possession by September 14, 2023. Consequently, we still have a few more days before we’ll know all of the new employment laws that California employers will have to comply with. In the meantime, here are a few highlights from what we know so far:
- Effective January 1, 2024, Employers will have to provide employees with a minimum of 40 hours or 5 days of paid sick leave. This is an increase from the current requirement of 24 hours or 3 days.
- Minimum wage will increase statewide to $16 per hour regardless of an employer’s size. Accordingly, the minimum salary threshold for exempt employees will increase to $66,560.00. Keep in mind that several Cities and Counties have local minimum wage ordinances that are higher than the state’s rate, although these rates do not affect the exempt salary minimum. Certain industries, such as fast-food workers and health care workers will have additional minimum wage requirements that will go into effect throughout the year.
- Most employers will be required to implement and maintain a written Workplace Violence Prevention Plan by July 2024, which must include procedures for reporting incidents of violence, investigation concerns, and reporting of emergencies. Employers will be required to train employees on reporting procedures, corrective measures, preventative strategies, and recording requirements.
Please join me on November 8, 2023, from 7:30 – 10am when I will be presenting for the National Human Resources Association (“NHRA”) on “The Latest Developments in Employment Law for 2024.” This informative presentation will include details on the above and so much more including legislative changes, recent case law, emerging trends, and best practices that are essential for businesses to ensure compliance with the evolving legal landscape in employment law. The cost is $31 for NHRA members, and $41 for non-members. You can register at the following link: https://humanresources.org/event-5422303