Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the fourth annual Labor Day Report today, highlighting the California Department of Justice's ongoing efforts to empower workers in California and across the country. The report also emphasizes ten key workplace rights that every worker in California should know and exercise, along with a consumer alert providing resources and information on recognizing and addressing 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 acknowledged those whose hard work keeps California and the nation strong. He highlighted that California hosts the largest and most diverse economy among U.S. states, crediting its resilient workforce across various industries such as agriculture, education, healthcare, and more. Despite some views that fair wages conflict with profitable economies, he noted that California exemplifies how respecting workers can coexist with maintaining a robust economy.

The report underscores DOJ’s continuous efforts to support workers: from advocating for farmworkers and transportation workers to opposing no-poach agreements, fighting illegal mergers, and addressing unfair competition and labor law violations.

Attorney General Bonta also outlined ten critical worker rights:

1. The right to organize and join a union.

2. Potential employee status even if labeled as a contractor.

3. Important 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 against employer retaliation when exercising these rights.

The report provides further details on obtaining help if any of these rights are violated; immediate dangers should be reported by calling 9-1-1.

A copy of the 2024 Labor Day Report is available online.

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