California minimum wage laws

California's minimum wage laws set the lowest legal hourly pay employers must give their workers, and these rates increase annually until 2023, when they are $15.50 per hour for all employers. As of 2023, larger employers (26 or more employees) must pay at least $15.50, while smaller employers pay $15.00. Local jurisdictions may have higher minimum wages. Employers must comply with these rates regardless of worker type, and deductions cannot reduce pay below the minimum wage. These laws help ensure fair compensation and are enforceable by labor agencies.