California’s new AI regulations will take effect on October 1, 2025, impacting how employers can use automated tools in hiring, recruitment, and beyond. In this episode of California Employment News, Weintraub attorneys Meagan Bainbridge and Shauna Correia break down what the rules mean, the risks of noncompliance, and the steps employers can take to stay compliant.
Continue Reading California Employment News: New AI Regulations for EmployersCalifornia Employment News: 2026 Minimum Wage Updates
Another year, another minimum wage raise. In this episode of California Employment News, Weintraub attorneys Chris Horsley and Nikki Mahmoudi expand on updates to state and local wage increases and cover key cities like Santa Monica, City and County of Los Angeles.
Continue Reading California Employment News: 2026 Minimum Wage UpdatesCalifornia Employment News: Understanding the Regular Rate of Pay
In this episode of California Employment News, Weintraub attorneys Ryan Abernethy and Talia Delanoy revisit the complexities of the regular rate of pay—a frequent issue in wage and hour class actions. From bonuses and shift differentials to common employer mistakes, they break down what must (and must not) be included in calculations, and the costly risks of getting it wrong.
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The Term “Exempt Employees” Under the HWHFA Applies to More than “White Collar” Exemptions When Calculating Paid Sick Time
In Hirdman v. Charter Communication (8/4/25) 113 Cal.App.5th 376, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals was faced with the sole issue of determining the meaning of the phrase “exempt employees” as used in California Labor Code section 246(l)(3).
Continue Reading The Term “Exempt Employees” Under the HWHFA Applies to More than “White Collar” Exemptions When Calculating Paid Sick Time
California Minimum Wage Set to Increase in 2026
State Minimum Wage Increase
On January 1, 2026, California’s state minimum wage will increase by 40 cents per hour, to $16.90 per hour. This adjustment is a 2.49% increase based on federal inflation data (the U.S. Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers). Employers with workers at or near the current minimum wage should plan accordingly, to ensure wages stay above the minimum. In addition, exempt workers’ salaries must also be adjusted to at least double the state minimum wage. The minimum salary for workers classified as exempt will rise to $70,304 per year ($5,858.67 per month) on January 1.
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