Latest Highlights

On May 31, 2024, the Governor of California signed into law (Senate Bill 828) which delays the implementation of California's health care worker minimum wage law by one month from June 1, 2024 to July 1, 2024. The original law required covered health care employees to be paid a minimum of between $18 and $23 per hour depending on the type of facility between June 1, 2024 and May 31, 2025.

The state of Washington has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 6069) that creates a new state-run retirement program (Washington Saves). Washington Saves is set to take effect on July 1, 2027.

Vermont has enacted legislation (House Bill 363), which expressly prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals on the basis of traits associated with race, including hair texture and hairstyles. House Bill 363 takes effect on July 1, 2024.

Utah has enacted legislation (House Bill 396), which expands employer religious accommodation requirements. House Bill 396 is effective immediately.

Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, has enacted the Human Relations Ordinance (the Ordinance), which adds nondiscrimination, and salary and criminal history protections. The Ordinance takes effect on June 1, 2024.

Oregon has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 1515), which helps align the Oregon Family Leave Act (OFLA) to Paid Leave Oregon (PLO). Many changes under Senate Bill 1515 take effect on July 1, 2024.

Anne Arundel County, Maryland has enacted an ordinance that will expressly prohibit discrimination in employment. The ordinance takes effect June 8, 2024.