(Rightallegiance.com) – In 2024, California will witness the implementation of new laws that bring about significant changes affecting its residents. These changes encompass various aspects, from wages and housing to justice, workers’ rights, health, education, and even the employment landscape.
Wages:
Starting January 1, California’s minimum wage will rise to $16 per hour. The fast-food and healthcare sectors will experience additional increases. Fast-food workers will see a minimum wage of $20 per hour by April, while healthcare workers will witness varying increases, with hospitals reaching $18 in 2024 and community clinics hitting $21. These figures are set to rise annually, reaching $25 in 2033 for some sectors.
Housing:
Assembly Bill 12 introduces a cap on security deposits at one month’s rent from July 1, 2024. AB 1418 prohibits “crime-free” housing policies, preventing evictions based on police calls. Senate Bill 567 refines “no-fault” tenancy terminations, providing tenants with information on demolitions or renovations. Noncompliant landlords may face penalties.
Justice:
Laws such as AB 701, SB 14, SB 133, and SB 135 target longer incarceration times for crimes like dealing fentanyl, possessing stolen catalytic converters, and sex trafficking of minors. Remote hearings are extended under SB 133 and SB 135, while AB 455 restricts firearm ownership for defendants in mental health diversion. AB 818 allows firearm confiscation during domestic violence incidents.
Workers:
Sick leave increases to five days annually under SB 616, covering caring for family and victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. SB 848 grants up to five days of unpaid leave for reproductive loss. SB 700 makes it illegal for employers to discriminate based on off-duty cannabis use. AB 2188 prohibits firing or disciplining based on nonpsychoactive traces of cannabis, exempting construction trades. SB 731 mandates a 30-day notice for remote employees returning to in-person work.
Health:
SB 43 expands involuntary mental health holds, addressing safety and substance abuse issues until 2026.
Education:
The CSU system is mandated to produce an annual report on its handling of sexual harassment allegations.
Employment Landscape:
The increase in the minimum wage for fast-food workers prompts some Pizza Hut franchises to discontinue delivery services, leading to layoffs. Operators cite the rising costs associated with the increased minimum wage. Franchises plan to rely on third-party delivery apps like Uber Eats, GrubHub, and DoorDash.
These legislative changes underscore California’s commitment to addressing various societal issues and ensuring the well-being and fair treatment of its residents.