Silver Taube Proposed state legislation would strengthen workers rights

In California, proposed legislation is making strides to address wage theft, human trafficking, and the rights of workers, with multiple bills currently under consideration in the state legislature. SB 261, sponsored by Senator Wahab, aims to create transparency by requiring the Labor Commission to publish the names of businesses that fail to pay wage theft judgments. Meanwhile, AB 485 would prevent state contractors from renewing their licenses if they have outstanding wage theft judgments. The urgency to reform the Labor Commission's processes is underscored by a recent audit revealing a median processing time of 854 days for wage claims, far exceeding the legal requirement of 135 days. Additional proposals include AB 1362, which seeks to regulate foreign labor recruiters to combat human trafficking, and SB 578, which aims to make the California Worker Outreach Program permanent.

Other bills address employee safety and expand Paid Family Leave eligibility for those caring for non-family members. The Santa Clara County Wage Theft Coalition is actively advocating for these changes, emphasizing their importance in protecting vulnerable workers. If enacted, these measures could significantly empower workers and enhance labor rights across California.