What are some must-have employment policies for California employers?

It is not just our exceptional weather that sets California apart from much of the country.  Employment policies that work in other states or that comply with federal law may not work in the Golden State.  With our infamously aggressive plaintiffs’ bar and the proliferation of class action lawsuits and representative actions such as those brought by aggrieved workers under the Private Attorney General Act (“PAGA”), every California employer should have the following employment policies written and communicated to their entire workforce:

  • At-will employment policy
  • Anti-harassment, discrimination, and retaliation policy
  • Timekeeping policy and prohibition against “off-the-clock” work
  • Meal period and rest break policy
  • Lactation accommodation policy
  • Time off and leave policies

These policies can be included in a simple but complete employee handbook, which can be a one-stop shop for all of your employment policies. If you need assistance drafting an employee handbook or have any questions about the above list, contact us.