confidential & free consultation
In 1943, the California legislature increased the state minimum wage from $0.33 to $0.45 per hour. The state has steadily increased minimum wage throughout the years, almost always mandating a higher wage than the federal government. 2019 is no different, as California’s minimum wage again increased on January 1. To make matters more complicated, there is another statutory minimum salary for exempt employees, which we will discuss in the next blog. There were also numerous local minimum wage increases effective July 1, 2019, which vary from the state requirements.
With all of the different minimum wage laws in play, it is all too easy for an employer to deny employees their deserved minimum wage. Employers should stay fully on top of each increase and plan ahead – if they do not, you might have a claim for unpaid wages. The following is an overview of different minimum wages throughout California for non-exempt employees.
As of January 1, 2019, the statewide minimum wage for California is as follows:
This minimum wage will continue to increase by $1.00 per hour each year until it reaches $15.00 – which will be in 2022 for larger employers and 2023 for smaller employers. Every employer should be ready for the upcoming increase each January until it reaches $15.00.
July is the time that local laws mandating minimum wage increases within certain jurisdictions go into effect. This past July 1, the following changes were implemented:
As you can see, the minimum wage can vary widely depending on the jurisdiction in which you work in California.
If you believe that your employer has not updated your pay in line with current minimum wage laws, you could be owed substantial back pay. Discuss your concerns with a California unpaid wages lawyer at the Mara Law Firm. Call (619) 234-2833 or contact us online today for more information.
David Mara, founder of Mara Law Firm, PC, is a California employment attorney specializing in wage and hour law and representing injured civilians under U.S. defense contracts. He has recovered tens of millions for workers and contributed to landmark cases like Brinker Restaurant Corp. v. Superior Court. A member of multiple legal organizations, he also shapes California labor laws through legislative reviews. Mara holds a B.A. from San Diego State University and a J.D. from California Western School of Law and is admitted to practice in various federal courts.
At Mara Law Firm, we are dedicated to fiercely advocating for workers who have faced wage theft, violations of California labor laws, or injuries sustained under a U.S. Defense Contract. With decades of experience, our attorneys provide personalized, confidential, and no-cost consultations to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. We bring unmatched expertise to protect your interests and fight relentlessly to secure the compensation you deserve, guiding you through every step of the legal process to uphold your rights and deliver the relief you need.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney David Mara who has more than 20 years of legal experience in employment law.
If you are in need of employment litigation attorney in California or have been injured overseas while under a military contract and are in need of a defense base act attorney. Please fill out the form below and contact us immediately for a FREE consultation.
all fields are required*