Key Workplace Rights in California 

September 11, 2025

California has some of the strongest labor protections in the nation. Knowing your rights is the first step toward defending them. 

1. The Right to a Safe and Healthy Workplace 

Employers are required under Cal/OSHA regulations to keep workplaces free of recognized hazards. This includes: 

• Providing proper safety equipment and training 

• Ensuring machinery is well-maintained 

• Addressing hazardous conditions promptly 

• Allowing workers to report unsafe conditions without punishment 

If your employer ignores safety concerns, you have the right to raise those concerns or file a complaint. 

2. Protection Against Discrimination 

The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) protects employees from discrimination in hiring, promotions, pay, and termination. It prohibits discrimination based on: 

• Race, ethnicity, or national origin 

• Religion or creed 

• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation 

• Age (40 and older) 

• Disability, medical condition, or pregnancy 

• Marital status, military status, or genetic information 

Discrimination can take many forms. Being denied promotions, excluded from opportunities, or treated unfairly compared to others because of who you are may be grounds for a claim. 

3. Protection Against Harassment 

Harassment is not simply a rude comment—it’s ongoing conduct that creates a hostile work environment. Examples include: 

• Sexual jokes, advances, or physical contact 

• Derogatory remarks about your race, gender, or religion 

• Intimidation or threats from supervisors or coworkers 

• Repeated offensive comments or bullying 

Employers must take reasonable steps to prevent harassment and act when complaints are made. 

4. The Right to Fair Pay and Benefits 

California’s wage and hour laws are designed to prevent exploitation. Key protections include: 

• A minimum wage (which is often higher in certain cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Jose) 

• Overtime pay at 1.5x your regular rate for hours over 8 in a day or 40 in a week 

• Double time pay for hours worked beyond 12 in a single day 

• Meal and rest breaks as required by law 

• Equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender or protected characteristics 

If you are consistently underpaid, denied overtime, or asked to work through breaks without compensation, your rights may be violated. 

5. Protection Against Retaliation 

Retaliation is one of the most common workplace violations. If you report misconduct—whether it’s wage theft, harassment, discrimination, or unsafe conditions—your employer cannot punish you. Retaliation can include: 

• Demotions or reduced hours 

• Negative performance reviews without cause 

• Harassment or exclusion by supervisors or coworkers 

• Wrongful termination 

If you experience retaliation after speaking up, you may have a strong legal case. 

Why Speaking Up Is Never Selfish 

Many employees struggle with guilt or fear when considering to file a complaint. They worry about disrupting the workplace or being seen as a problem. But the reality is that silence often enables mistreatment to continue. 

Here’s why asserting your rights matters: 

• You set boundaries. When you stand up for yourself, you send a message that harmful behavior will not be tolerated. 

• You protect others. By voicing your concerns, you may prevent your colleagues—or future employees—from enduring the same treatment. 

• You enforce accountability. Employment laws exist for a reason. Speaking up ensures that employers follow them. 

• You preserve your dignity. Your well-being matters. Standing up is about protecting your mental health, career, and future. 

Respect at work is not a luxury—it’s a right. Taking action is not selfish; it is an investment in your own life and in the fairness of your workplace.