By leveraging these insights, businesses can make informed decisions to remain competitive in a dynamic labor market, align compensation strategies with market realities, and address staffing challenges proactively. To stay ahead in today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, we encourage you to delve deeper into localized trends and leverage this data for strategic workforce planning. For more tailored insights or assistance with your hiring needs, contact our team of experts to explore customized solutions that drive success in your organization. ● Continued ripple effects from California’s $20 fast-food minimum wage influence wage expectations across entry-level roles ● Employers in hospitality, retail, and business services face upward pressure on hourly and frontline pay ● Increased reliance on automation, contract labor, and workforce optimization strategies to manage labor costs ● Entry-level turnover remains elevated at approximately 14–16%, driven by wage competition and housing affordability Wage Trends SB 294 – Workplace Know Your Rights Act Notices ● Starting Feb 1, 2026, employers must provide an annual “Know Your Rights” notice to employees. ● Must cover workers’ comp, immigration protections, union/concerted activity, and rights during law enforcement interactions. ● Must be provided in the employee’s workplace communication language. ● Employees must be able to designate an emergency contact by March 30, 2026. Why that impacts salary: Adds compliance workload and accelerates onboarding/policy standardization. SB 617 – Cal-WARN Notice Updates ● Effective Jan 1, 2026, Cal-WARN notices must include expanded required details. ● Must include local workforce board coordination info and CalFresh assistance contacts. ● If coordinating services, employers must arrange them within 30 days. Why that impacts salary: Increases risk and admin demands during workforce reductions. Legislation Insights