As we approach the beginning of a new calendar year, we are all busy ensuring our agencies are poised for success. This year, along with all the other work that needs to be done – be sure to prioritize updating the required employment notices. Below you will find a summary of the key changes taking effect this January.
California Minimum Wage
Effective January 1, 2025, the statewide minimum wage will increase to $16.50 per hour for all employers, regardless of size. An updated California Minimum Wage notice has been published by the Department of Industrial Relations. In addition, many jurisdictions may have local minimum wage increases with the new year.
Whistleblowers Are Protected
Assembly Bill 2299 was passed in July 2024 and required that the Labor Commissioner develop a model list of employee rights and responsibilities under the current whistleblower laws. The Labor Commissioner recently published an updated Whistleblowers are Protected notice which must be posted by January 1, 2025. Please note this document must be displayed in a font size larger than 14-point.
Notice to Employees – Injuries Caused by Work
The Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has updated the Notice to Employees – Injuries Caused by Work (DWC Form 7). This update is required by Assembly Bill 1870 which amended the Labor Code to require certain additional notices to injured workers regarding consulting an attorney and that in most cases attorney fees will be paid out of what they recover as a result of their claim. This amendment becomes effective January 1, 2025.
Members are encouraged to review workplace postings on an ongoing basis, but at a minimum in January each year, to ensure the most current notices and documents are included. To further assist members, PRISM Risk Control offers a comprehensive resource on California Workplace Posting Requirements. For questions about these upcoming notice changes, please contact Sarah Bruno.