A Law Firm That Understands
The Needs Of A Modern Business

New year, new (and updated) laws: are you ready?

On Behalf of | Jan 20, 2025 | Business law

Each year brings a plethora of new laws, including several that regulate the employer-employee relationship. 

If you’re a business owner in Orange County, you likely have a lot on your plate. Some of those new regulations may have fallen through the cracks. So, here’s a summary of new employment laws you need to know for 2025.

#1. The end to subminimum wages

Before this year, employers could pay workers with disabilities less than minimum wage. The rationale behind subminimum wages was to provide a specific population with opportunities that might not exist. Employers would have an incentive to hire intellectually disabled people and pay them based on their productivity rather than the state’s minimum wage. 

Lawmakers have successfully argued that every worker deserves the opportunity to earn a living wage. With the end to subminimum wages, every worker will be paid a minimum wage regardless of their ability.

#2. Protecting the health and safety of farmworkers

Californians are no strangers to extreme weather conditions, such as fires, heat and flooding. SB 1105 was signed into law, which allows agricultural workers to use accrued sick leave to avoid hazardous weather conditions.

#3. Driver’s license requirements

It is illegal for California employers to discriminate against employees based on their race, religion, ethnicity, disability, marital status, sex or gender (and many others). Requiring a driver’s license can be a form of discrimination. Therefore, a lack of a driver’s license can not be a barrier to employment unless the position requires the employee to drive.

#4. Expansion of sick leave

Previously, the law required employers to allow victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking to use their sick time. The law has now expanded to allow the families of victims to use their leave time to help their loved ones.

Laws are continuously being changed and updated. Staying abreast of new regulations is mandatory, and failing to comply can result in severe penalties. Having someone who can review and update your policies can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you are in compliance with the newest regulations.