Behind the scenes, we’re busy preparing for the new 2026 employment laws starting on January 1, so HRWatchdog will be taking a break until the new year. Unless something HR professionals need to know right away occurs before the end of the year, we will be back on January 5, 2026 — ready to bring you the latest 2026 court cases, agency actions, and California and federal legislative updates you need to know about.
In 2025, our five most read blogs demonstrate how significant regulatory, legislative and other legal updates throughout the year can keep HR professionals on their toes.
- California Local Minimum Wage Increases for July 1, 2025
- California’s 2026 Minimum Wage Increases to $16.90 Per Hour
- USCIS Releases New Version of Form I-9
- Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulation Sunsetting
- City of Los Angeles Raises Wages for Hotel, Airport Workers
For instance, not only do employers need to ensure they’re paying employees at least the statewide minimum wage, but they also must comply with local minimum wage rates and industry-specific requirements.
California and federal employment laws are always changing, and 2026 shouldn’t be any different. So, thank you for reading HRWatchdog to stay updated on HR news and resources.
For 2026, make sure you’re prepared with our free New 2026 Labor and Employment Laws white paper. Plus, order your CalChamber 2026 California and Federal Labor Law poster with all the required poster updates you need to stay in compliance in the new year. Don’t forget to check for any required local ordinance poster updates.
Finally, register now for our popular 2026 Employment Law Updates seminars, where our employment law experts provide in-depth analysis, clear explanations of compliance obligations, and a comprehensive review and discussion of recent state and federal laws and regulations.
Have a wonderful, safe holiday and a very happy New Year! See you in 2026.
