Bill Would Strengthen Enforcement Against Businesses in Wage Theft Cases

A measure to increase remedies for workplace grievance lawsuits under consideration by the California Legislature passed the Appropriations Committee May 1. Assembly Bill 2288, introduced by Assemblyman Ash Kalra, seeks to allow courts to order injunctive relief—thus forcing businesses in violation of employment laws to comply—and declaratory relief—where rights are declared but no action is necessary—in cases filed under the Private Attorney General’s Act, also known as PAGA. “AB 2288 builds upon PAGA’s role as a vital tool to enforce workers’ rights,” Mr. Kalra said during the Assembly’s Judiciary Committee on April 23. “This bill would help ensure [workers] see comprehensive, meaningful relief to unlawful workplace practices.”...