California Health Care Worker Minimum Wage Increase on October 16, 2024
On October 16, 2024, a new minimum wage law will come into effect for health care workers in California. This significant change is a result of three key legislative updates: SB 525, SB 828, and SB 159. These bills introduce higher minimum wage standards for workers in certain health care facilities, impacting thousands of employees across the state, including those in Los Angeles.
What Does SB 525 Mean for Health Care Workers in Los Angeles?
SB 525 and related legislation have added sections to the California Labor Code, establishing a higher minimum wage for workers in specific health care settings. These changes aim to ensure fair compensation for the hard work of those providing essential health care services or supporting the provision of care.
If you are a health care worker in Los Angeles, you may be eligible for these new wage standards, provided you work at a facility covered under the new laws. Here’s what you need to know:
- Effective Date: The higher minimum wage becomes effective on October 16, 2024. This is following the California Department of Health Care Services’ notification to the Legislature that data retrieval related to hospital quality assurance fees has been initiated.
- Wage Rates:
- $23 per hour for health care facilities with over 10,000 full-time employees, including large hospital systems and dialysis clinics.
- $18 per hour for independent hospitals or rural health care facilities with higher governmental payor mixes.
- $21 per hour for intermittent, community, or rural clinics unless waived.
For facilities in Los Angeles, this wage increase applies to hospitals, clinics, and other covered entities employing health care workers, including janitorial staff, who support health care operations.
How Does This Impact Los Angeles Employers?
Employers in the health care sector in Los Angeles must ensure compliance with these new wage standards by the October 16, 2024 deadline. This includes hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient clinics associated with health systems. Employers are required to adjust payroll and notify employees of the new wage rates as per California law. Failure to comply could result in penalties and legal action.
Employers must also post the Health Care Worker Minimum Wage Supplement alongside their existing Industrial Welfare Commission wage orders to ensure all workers are informed.
Are You a Covered Worker?
To be eligible for the higher minimum wage, you must:
- Work in a covered health care facility, such as a hospital, community clinic, or rural health clinic.
- Provide direct health care services or support the provision of such services, even in roles like cleaning or maintenance.
If you are uncertain about your eligibility, check with your employer or consult with a qualified employment lawyer.
Setyan Law: Advocates for Health Care Workers
If you’re a health care worker in Los Angeles and believe you’re entitled to the higher minimum wage but your employer isn’t complying, it’s important to seek legal advice. Setyan Law, a top-rated Los Angeles employment lawyer, specializes in representing employees in wage and hour disputes. We can help you navigate this new legislation and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
FAQs
When does the new minimum wage take effect?
Which workers are eligible?
What should I do if my employer is not paying the new wage?
The increase takes effect on October 16, 2024.
Health care workers in Los Angeles working in covered facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and skilled nursing facilities, are eligible.
If your employer refuses to comply with the new wage laws, you should contact an employment lawyer immediately to understand your legal rights.
Need a Lawyer?
Setyan Law is your trusted partner in employment law matters, ensuring your rights are protected in wage disputes. Call us today at 213-618-3655 for a free consultation.
