California’s Minimum Wage Law for Healthcare Workers May Be Delayed

In October 2023, Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill No. 525, establishing minimum wage schedules for healthcare employees and raising the minimum wage to $21 per hour for many healthcare facilities. However, State Senator Mara Elana Durazo introduced Senate Bill No. 828 on May 20, 2024, to delay this wage increase from June 1 to July 1, 2024, to give the state more time to address the budget deficit and implement the new wage schedules. Click here for article.

• SB 525 Implementation: Originally scheduled to raise the minimum wage for healthcare employees to $21 per hour on June 1, 2024.

• SB 828 Delay: Proposed by Senator Durazo to delay the wage increase to July 1, 2024, allowing more time for state budget planning.

• Budget Concerns: The delay is due to a projected state budget deficit and the significant cost increase associated with the wage hike.

• Employer Guidance: Employers should check if their workers are affected, consult employment attorneys, and ensure compliance with the new wage requirements.