The Employment Laws That Protect You

As an employee, you need to know your rights. This is the only way to ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Employment laws are designed to protect you from discrimination, dangerous working conditions, and unfair labor practices.. In California, various laws safeguard employees and provide legal recourse when their rights are violated. Here, we explore the key employment laws designed to protect you and how you can enforce them.

Anti-discrimination laws are clear

Federal and state statutes prohibit any form of discriminatory conduct in the workplace based on specific characteristics.

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act we all have the right to be treated fairly. No matter what our race, color, sex, national origin, or religion
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that helps make sure that people with disabilities are treated fairly at work.
• California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): is a comprehensive anti-discrimination law that protects individuals based on characteristics such as sexual orientation, gender, marital status, and more.

If you experience discrimination at work, file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).

Wage and Hour Protections

California has some of the most substantial wage and hour laws in the country, including:

• Minimum wage laws: Employers are obligated to pay at least the state-mandated minimum wage, which frequently exceeds the federal minimum.
• Overtime pay: Employees who work more than eight hours a day or 40 hours a week are entitled to overtime pay.
• Meal and rest breaks: Workers are entitled to a 30-minute meal break on shifts exceeding five hours and a 10-minute break for every four hours worked.

In the event that your employer violates wage and hour laws, you have the option of filing a wage claim.

Workplace Safety and Health Regulations

Employees have the right to a safe and healthy workplace under:

• Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA): Requires employers to maintain safe working conditions and provide necessary safety training.
• Cal/OSHA: Enforces stricter workplace safety standards specific to California.

If you face unsafe conditions at work, you can report violations to Cal/OSHA without fear of retaliation.

Protection Against Retaliation and Wrongful Termination

California law protects employees who exercise their legal rights, including:

• Reporting workplace violations or unsafe conditions.
• Filing discrimination or wage complaints.
• Taking legally protected leave, such as medical or family leave.

Wrongful termination cases often arise when employees are dismissed for illegal reasons. If you suspect you were wrongfully terminated, legal assistance can help you determine the best course of action.

Lara & Luna APC Can Assist You

If you believe your rights have been violated, contact us today for a free consultation.

Know your rights. Stand up against unfair treatment. Seek the protection you deserve. Employment laws exist to guarantee a safe, fair, and equitable work environment for everyone.