California Employment Law 2026: The SHRM Guide for Employers

California Employment Law 2026: The SHRM Guide for Employers

California Employment Law 2026 is the only book employers need to stay fully compliant with the latest legal changes in the state. It is often said that it is difficult for an employer to fully comply with all of California's employment laws. They are just too numerous, too complicated, and changing too often. There are so many traps for the unwary and a simple mistake can lead to a seven-figure jury verdict or a class action lawsuit. California Employment Law 2026 is the official SHRM guide and so is the go-to resource for anyone who must contend with employment law in California as part of their day-to-day work, both those based in-state and those employers based outside of California who have employees working in the state. This valuable reference is updated to address new developments, including: - Restrictions on the use of AI-based systems in hiring - Prohibition on most "stay or pay" agreements - California's "Workplace Know Your Rights Act" requirements - The legal definition of a "hostile working environment" - Requirements for accommodating a pregnant employee - Limitation on the scope of arbitration agreements - New minimum wage and overtime exemption salary thresholds "The myriad complex employment laws for California employers can appear overwhelming. This book not only serves as an overview to compliance, but it also serves as an authoritative reference when issues arise." ― Steven M. Morris, SHRM-SCP, Law Office Administrator "If you're looking for the definitive guide to California workplace laws and employment protections, this is the reference to have!" ― Justine McDermott, HR Manager "I use it every day. It's my go-to reference for all things California Employment Law." ― Emily Riedel, HR Administrator "Even the most experienced HR professionals will find California Employment Law a necessity." ― Karen Saidiner, Vice President, HR "This useful tool is great for those employment law situations that don't come up every day-and a few that do. It's California Employment Law simplified." ― Ann Huston, SHRM-SCP, HR Manager James J. McDonald, Jr., J.D., SHRM-SCP , is a partner in the Irvine, California office of Fisher & Phillips LLP, an international employment law firm. With more than 30 years of experience advising and advocating for employers, he is a trial lawyer, litigator and strategic advisor to employers ranging from global companies to entrepreneurial concerns, public agencies and nonprofits. He taught labor and employment law at the University of California, Irvine for 16 years, and he is a frequent speaker at SHRM conferences and events nationwide. A cum laude graduate of Georgetown University Law Center, he is a member of the California and Florida Bars, and he holds SHRM's designation as a senior certified professional in human resources.