Blog

Employees are often the first to see problems but not always comfortable raising concerns directly. When organizations want to reduce risk, improve culture, and stay compliant, they create safe, confidential ways for employees to speak up. That’s where the We Want to...

2025 brought California employers a wave of new legal obligations, updated rules and regulations, and significant court decisions that will require thoughtful planning in 2026. There are 9 new labor laws impacting most employers, plus 8 key court cases. In addition,...

California employers often struggle to determine whether time spent on new-hire activities such as drug testing, background checks, or onboarding tasks — is compensable. A recent California court decision involving Amazon (Martinho v. Amazon.com Services LLC) provides...

EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 1, 2025 Every day more employers are using AI in hiring and employment practices. The future looks to AI to assist us with employment decisions however we need to be careful about violating discrimination laws. The California Civil Rights Council...

What You Need to Know About the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) The recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces sweeping changes - but two provisions stand out for employers with tipped workers and those paying overtime: “No Tax on Tips” “No Tax...

In the last few weeks I have spoken to four companies with 60, 100, 220 and 2,800 employees with serious HR issues involving employee relations, wage and hour lawsuits, leaves of absence issue among many others. A well-structured HR function is the backbone of every...

With temperatures already climbing and triple-digit heat forecasted across California, it’s more important than ever for employers to ensure full compliance with Cal/OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention Regulations. Whether your employees work outdoors or indoors, extreme...

Although most of California’s expanded crime victims’ leave requirements took effect back on January 1, 2025, the notice requirement didn’t kick in until now - because the Civil Rights Department (CRD) had to first create and publish a model notice for employers. That...

No employer wants a surprise visit from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - but it’s critical to be prepared. Whether it’s an unexpected visit or a scheduled audit, knowing your rights and responsibilities can make all the difference. Below is a...

Starting July 1, 2025, California’s SB 1350 expands Cal/OSHA protections to cover household domestic workers—including house cleaners, cooks, childcare providers, gardeners, and handymen. If you operate as a business or hire domestic help for more than five hours per...