Minimum wages to rise statewide, with larger gains for fast food and health workers. More paid sick leave, workplace violence prevention rules and other worker protections are also to begin Jan. 1.
California requires a minimum of three sick days, the least among 15 states. A bill to raise it to five days is opposed by the business lobby as it awaits Gov. Newsom’s signature.
California must continue improvements to its leave policy, which is critical for the women, people of color and immigrants who comprise the majority of low-income workers.
The state senator says ‘we’re starting to break through’ on expanding the safety net for all Californians.
Promising new legislation to keep California workers safe would leave many uncovered.
So far, Gov. Gavin Newsom has given no indication that he’s inclined to extend supplemental paid leave.
New legislation requiring paid time off for COVID-related issues excludes businesses with 25 employees or less.