CA Labor Commissioner

California Requires Employer Annual Workplace Rights Notice Under New Law

The California Labor Commissioner's Office announces the Workplace Know Your Rights Act (Labor Code Sections 1550-1559), effective January 1, 2026, which requires employers to provide workers with annual written notice of their workplace rights by February 1. The notice must be distributed in languages normally used at the workplace and cover retaliation protections, workers' compensation rights, union and group activity rights, immigration-related protections, emergency contact notification, and rights during law enforcement interactions. Employers must allow workers to designate an emergency contact by March 30, 2026.

California Minimum Wage Set to Increase to $16.90 per Hour on January 1, 2026

The California Labor Commissioner’s Office announced that the state minimum wage will increase from $16.50 to $16.90 per hour on January 1, 2026. The announcement reminds employers of their obligation to pay at least the minimum wage and provides guidance on the salary threshold for exempt employees, which rises to $70,304 annually. Employers who fail to comply may be required to pay back wages and liquidated damages.