Sacramento, California — Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) has temporarily paused Senate Bill 310, also known as the Wage Theft Bill. The bill seeks to enhance protections for California’s low-wage workers. Following additional revisions and negotiations, it will be revisited in January 2026.
The legislation is designed to enable workers to recover back pay and penalties for late or stolen wages more effectively. Current state law offers limited recourse options, leaving many workers without viable remedies, particularly those living paycheck to paycheck.
Key updates:
- SB 310 would allow court recovery of penalties without undermining the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA).
- Opposition from business groups, especially the California Chamber of Commerce, led to the delay.
- Critics allegedly misrepresented the bill’s alignment with existing labor laws, causing legislative setbacks.
Senator Wiener stated that the bill ensures timely and enforceable remedies for wage theft victims. He plans to collaborate with Judiciary Chair Tom Umberg to refine the proposal before reintroduction.
Supporters, including Legal Aid at Work and the California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for reform, citing overwhelmed labor enforcement systems and the severe impact of delayed pay on vulnerable workers.
If you believe you have been affected by wage theft in California, contact us today. Our employment lawyer in Sacramento provides free, confidential consultations to help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.
