California business owners must comply with several different sets of laws when it comes to running their businesses. There are municipal, state, and federal rules and regulations that must be understood, and followed. When a business has employees, there are other considerations that will make running one’s operations more complex.
If you need help understanding California employment law and your obligations as a business owner in California to those individuals who work for you, you are welcome to reach out and contact an experienced Los Angeles business attorney at the Leiva Law Firm for sound legal guidance and support.
Basic Summary of Employment Laws in California
California’s employment laws are generally considered some of the most complicated for business owners to maneuver. But, if you operate a business in California and you have employees, you must know what is expected of you. The following tips can be explored further, but act as a means to provide a basic summary of what all employers must know.
- California has expansive anti-discrimination laws. There are several protected classes to which an employer may not discriminate against. Additionally, pregnant employees must be accommodated, employers must provide equal pay, wage discussions must be permitted, whistleblowers must be protected, and employees must be given access to their personnel files.
- An employer may perform a drug and background check, but they are limited in inquiring about past salary.
- Minimum wage, overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, breastfeeding breaks, and child labor considerations are all regulated by the state.
- Pay and benefits regulations include temporary disability insurance, healthcare, pay statements, and various wage notice requirements.
- Employee leave includes paid sick and family leave, bereavement leave, medical leave, domestic violence, and emergency responder leave.
- Smoking is not prohibited at work.
- Using a handheld device while driving is not prohibited.
- Employers must make sure that their work environment is safe for their employees, including providing them with written guidelines for Injury and Illness Prevention.
- Employers must provide appropriate pay for the end of employment.
- Employers must abide by mass layoff and job reference laws.
In some instances, there is overlap between all of the laws and regulations to be followed. In this situation, when federal, state, and municipal laws have similar protections and language, then erring in following the law that offers the greatest benefit for employees is the right approach.
California meticulously regulates the employer-employee relationship. Failure to follow employment laws means that an employer can face costly civil penalties. Repeated violations can lead to progressively more expensive fines. Also, a business risks suffering a level of diminished reputation.
Speak to an Attorney at the Leiva Law Firm Today
The consequences of violations of employment law in California can be severe for employers. It is best to have a comprehensive understanding of municipal, state, and federal laws. Knowing what is expected of you and getting it right is imperative.
If you have questions about employment law or need assistance with a legal dispute, you may call the Leiva Law Firm at (818) 519-4465. Initial consultations are complimentary.
