“Piece-rate” compensation means an employee is paid based on the amount of “pieces” they complete rather than the hours worked. For example, suppose an employee is paid by the number of pipes they install, and how long each job takes is not accounted for. Issues with Piece-Rate Compensation Although California Labor Code allows employers...

State labor laws protect all workers in California, including those that only work seasonally. What are Seasonal Employees? Seasonal employees are typically hired in positions for a short period to help with increased work demands that arise during different times in the year and in different industries—for example, retail (e.g., holiday season), tourism (e.g.,...

Moonlighting refers to an employee who works a second job on the side, usually after hours. California law generally protects the rights of workers to moonlight. Under California Labor Code section 96, employers are essentially prohibited from punishing employees who engage in moonlighting in their free time. Exceptions to California’s Moonlighting Law There are...

Pay secrecy is a type of workplace policy that prohibits employees from discussing their salaries. Whether informal or formal, these policies are illegal in California, as they are typically used as an effort by an employer to conceal wage discrimination. Is it Illegal to Discuss Wages? The following laws protect the right of workers...

California requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect employees if they suffer work-related injuries. If an employer fails to carry workers’ comp, they subject themselves to severe penalties. Incarceration and Major Fines A business with at least one part-time or full-time employee that fails to purchase workers’ compensation insurance is in violation...