labor laws and rights
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all workers are protected under state laws
labor rights for every worker
The Lab or Commissioner is reminding all employers that California’s lab or laws protect every worker in the state (regardless of immigration status). All employers are legally obligated to comply with all state lab or laws including those that are immigration related.
know your rights.
If you are employed in California, your employer must provide a safe workplace and pay all the wages you are owed. If you think an injury or illness is work – related, you may be able to receive workers’ compensation benefits from your employer to pay for medical care and partial wages.
Employees are protected. It is Illegal to Retaliate Against An Employee For, Exercising, Any Of Their Rights Under The Law, Including Head of Marketing, Raising A Health And Safety Concern Or Reporting A Work – Related Injury.
cal/osha
occupational safety and healthy act of 1973
You have a right to a safe and healthful workplace. The California Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1973 was enacted by the California Legislature to assure safe and healthful working conditions for all California working men and women. Cal/OSHA wants every worker to go home from work each day safe and healthy.
Under Cal/OSHA, every worker has the right to a safe and hazard-free work environment. Employers are legally required to provide proper training, protective equipment, and safe tools or machinery. They must also post safety notices and report serious workplace injuries. If you encounter unsafe working conditions, you have the right to report them to Cal/OSHA without fear of retaliation.
injured at work? you’re protected.
Your Rights After a Job Injury or Illness
If you’re hurt or become ill because of your job, California law ensures that you’re protected—regardless of your job type or immigration status. Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to help cover medical care and provide support while you recover. Your employer is required to comply, and it is illegal for them to retaliate against you for reporting a job-related injury or illness.
- Your employer must pay for medical care if you’re injured on the job even if you don’t miss work.
- Temporary and part-time workers are also eligible for benefits.
- You do not need to be a legal resident of the U.S. to qualify for most workers’ compensation benefits.
- It’s illegal for your employer to fire or punish you for reporting an injury or requesting workers’ comp.
california labor code section 98.6
workers' rights
Under California Labor Code Section 98.6, workers are protected from retaliation for exercising their rights. An employer cannot punish or retaliate against a worker for filing a claim or complaint with the Labor Commissioner or for asserting any rights under California labor laws.
take time to care for yourself
Your Right to Paid Sick Leave and Safe Time Off
California law guarantees workers the right to paid sick leave and job-protected time off to address personal health needs or recover from traumatic events such as domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or the loss of a loved one due to a crime. Whether you’re sick, supporting a family member, or seeking protection and services, you may be eligible for leave without fear of retaliation.
Paid Sick Leave Highlights:
- Employees who work in California for 30+ days in a year are entitled to paid sick leave.
- Sick leave accrues at 1 hour for every 30 hours worked, starting from the first day of work.
- Accrued leave carries over to the next year and can be capped at 80 hours or 10 days.
- Alternatively, employers may offer 5 days (or 40 hours) of leave up front each year, with no accrual or rollover needed.
Time Off for Victims of Crime or Abuse:
- You can take time off to seek a restraining order or court protection for yourself or your children.
- If your employer has 25 or more workers, you can take leave to get medical attention for injuries caused by abuse or crime.
- If your employer has 25 or more workers, you can take leave to receive services from a shelter, counseling center, or victim support organization.
- Proof is not usually required to take this type of leave.
meals and breaks
California law ensures that workers have the right to take regular meal and rest breaks during their shifts. These breaks are designed to protect your health, safety, and productivity on the job. Employers are required to provide them without interruption or penalty.
- 1 unpaid 30-minute meal break after 5 hours of work
- 2nd meal break required after 10 hours of work
- 1 paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked
- All breaks must be uninterrupted and off-duty
Everyone Deserves a Safe and Respectful Workplace
Your Right to Protection from Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment at work is illegal in California. You are protected under the law whether the harassment comes from a manager, coworker, or even a client. You have the right to report inappropriate behavior without fear of retaliation, and your employer is legally required to take your complaint seriously.
WHAT’S PROHIBITED:
- Unwelcome sexual advances
- Creating a hostile or intimidating work environment
- Retaliating against you for reporting harassment
WHERE TO REPORT:
- Your HR department or direct supervisor
- The California Civil Rights Department (CRD)
- The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
a final reminder
documentation is your power.
Always keep copies of your pay stubs, work schedules, time-off requests, and any complaints or written reports you’ve submitted. These documents can support you if there’s ever a dispute about your rights or working conditions. Remember, you cannot be punished or fired for reporting violations or standing up for your rights. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up, reach out to California’s Labor Commissioner’s Office or a legal advocate for help. Stay Informed. Stay Protected. You Have Rights!
Support is available for workers in Southern California
Facing a Labor Issue?
If you live in the Southern California area, especially in San Bernardino County, and are experiencing problems related to your workplace rights, we’re here to help. Whether it’s about wages, leave, discrimination, or any other labor concern, our team is ready to assist you.