California 4 hour Minimum Pay Law
Employers in California pay their employees at least one-half of their shift when they are scheduled to work.
Employers in California pay their employees at least one-half of their shift when they are scheduled to work.
By Brad Nakase, Attorney
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California’s 4-hour minimum shift rule is a labor law that ensures certain protections for employees in the state. It mandates that when an employee is scheduled to work, they must be paid for a minimum of four hours of work, even if they are permitted to leave early or are not given a full 4 hours of work.
The rule applies to both full-time and part-time employees, with a few exceptions. For example, if an employee requests to work fewer than four hours, they may be exempt from the minimum shift rule. Additionally, certain industries such as the motion picture industry, broadcasting, and agricultural occupations have specific provisions and exemptions.
The purpose of this law is to prevent employers from scheduling employees for short shifts without providing sufficient compensation. It helps protect workers from having their time wasted by requiring employers to provide a minimum level of pay for any scheduled work shift, regardless of its duration.
In situations where an employee is sent home early, the employer is still required to pay them for the full 4-hour shift. However, if an employee is unable to work the full shift due to circumstances beyond the employer’s control, such as a power outage or natural disaster, the rule does not apply. If you weren’t paid the minimum four hours, please contact our lawyer for workers in San Diego to get your unpaid wage.
There are some situations that the California 4-hour minimum shift rule does not apply to. While the law generally requires employers to pay employees for at least four hours of work, even if their shift is shorter, there are certain circumstances where the rule may not apply, according a employment litigation attorney in Los Angeles. Here are a few exceptions to keep in mind:
If an employee believes that their employer has denied them their minimum shift pay in violation of California labor laws, there are several steps they can take:
Remember, each situation is unique, and it is important to seek personalized advice from a legal professional to understand the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.
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