Since re-taking the White House 11 days ago, President Donald J. Trump has taken dramatic steps to dismantle DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) programs in workplaces nationwide. President Trump’s executive orders targeting DEI programs pose particular challenges, though, for employers doing business in California, where state and local laws continue to require compliance with broad,
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New California Posters Available
Many of you know that there is no rhyme or reason as to when California decides to update their many required postings. So, dear readers, we wanted to let you know that the Civil Rights Department has updated the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) and Pregnancy Disability Leave poster, as well as the Discrimination and…
Doing Business in California Guide Updated for 2025
Our team has updated the firm’s handy Doing Business in California Guide for 2025. In this Guide we explain the key issues that make California such a compliance challenge for businesses. Learn about wage-and-hour compliance, the dreaded PAGA, all of the special rules for protected time off, paid sick leave, the state’s ban on non-competes,…
Employer Obligations for Wild Fires Revisited
Unfortunately, today is a good day to revisit our blog post on employer obligations and employee protections for wildfires, smoke, power outages, and other natural disasters. Please review that post here. Thank you Michelle Harrington for the post a few years ago. I wish it wasn’t relevant. Also, see these FAQs from the California…
Beware Minimum Wage Increases Throughout California In 2025
As we head into the new year, employers must continue to monitor minimum wages at the state and local level. California’s minimum wage will increase on January 1, 2025 to $16.50. In addition, the minimum wage will increase on January 1, 2025 (and again in July) for several municipalities. It can be tricky staying…
Time to Update that California Arbitration Agreement for 2025
Mandatory arbitration is legal in California. As you are updating your handbooks and other policies for 2025, don’t forget to revisit your arbitration agreement. Some key issues to look for include:
- If you have an opt-out, you might not need it anymore. Mandatory arbitration is now ok!
- Confirm the agreement is in the name
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Essential California Handbook Updates for 2025
It’s that time of year for my annual holiday rituals: gingerbread lattes, Black Friday sales and employee handbook updates! As we move into 2025, California’s legal landscape continues to evolve, with several important updates that should be reflected in employee handbooks. Below are the key updates for the upcoming year:
1. AB 2499: Expanded Time…
One Use of the “N-word” Lands an Employer in a Jury Trial – Lessons to Learn
One instance of a coworker directing the “N-word” to a Black employee can rise to the level of being so severe as to make for a racially hostile work environment in violation of the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”), the state Supreme Court recently ruled. The case is a valuable reminder for employers…
Seven Steps for an Effective Compliance Training Program
In this article for HR.com, I provide seven practical tips to help keep your employee training sessions fun and informative. Some highlights include:
- Training should be fun and something an employee looks forward to as a break from the routine.
- Customize training to address specific legal challenges relevant to your organization, making it more
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