California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the fourth annual Labor Day Report, highlighting the California Department of Justice’s ongoing efforts to empower workers in California and across the country. The report emphasizes ten key workplace rights that every worker in California should know and exercise, along with a consumer alert providing resources and information on labor trafficking.
"Growing up, I was inspired by watching my parents fight for better working conditions and fair wages for Filipino and Latino farmworkers alongside labor leaders like Dolores Huerta, Larry Itliong, Philip Vera Cruz, and Cesar Chavez," said Attorney General Bonta. "Today I am honored to continue the fight for justice in the workplace on behalf of the people of California. My office is proud to support workers this Labor Day and all year round. From holding accountable labor-law violators and cracking down on unfair competition to combatting labor trafficking and fighting for stronger protections in the workplace — I will continue to fight for the millions of workers who are the backbone of California."
Attorney General Bonta honors those whose hard work sustains California's economy. He notes that while some argue fair wages conflict with profitable economies, California demonstrates that respecting workers can coexist with maintaining a robust economy. The state has enacted expansive worker protection laws contributing to its status as the fifth largest economy globally.
The report details DOJ’s efforts supporting workers: advocating for farmworkers and transportation workers, opposing no-poach agreements, challenging illegal mergers, and addressing unfair competition and labor law violations.
Additionally, Attorney General Bonta highlights ten essential worker rights:
1. The right to organize and join a union.
2. Potential employee status even if labeled a contractor.
3. Wage-and-hour rights including minimum wage entitlement.
4. Ownership of wages, tips, and accrued vacation.
5. Entitlement to time off including paid parental leave.
6. Protection from sexual harassment and discrimination under California law.
7. Eligibility for unemployment insurance if fired or quitting for good cause.
8. Entitlement to workers’ compensation benefits.
9. Right to refuse unsafe work reasonably.
10. Protection from employer retaliation when exercising these rights.
The report provides further information on seeking help if these rights are violated or if someone is in immediate danger.
A copy of the 2024 Labor Day Report is available here.