California Labor Commissioner reminds employers of legal rights and obligations under California labor laws
To assist employers in complying with California law, the following chart summarizes some, but not all, labor laws that protect employees regarding immigration status.
Under California’s unfair immigration practices laws, employers are prohibited from:
Requesting more or different documents than required by federal law
Misusing E-Verify
Threatening to file a false report with a government agency
Threatening to contact or contacting immigration authorities
In addition, employers are legally required to comply with notice provisions informing employees of immigration enforcement at the workplace and notifying their authorized representative of the activity and outcome.
Southern California air quality regulators reject plan to phase out gas water heaters and furnaces
More good news for CRA members! After years of pressure by CRA's team in SoCal, today, the Southern California Air Quality Management District failed to adopt Rules 1111 and 1121, which would have added billions in costs for neighborhood restaurants & families over time. The rules would have forced expensive retrofits for electric systems & higher utility bills. The CRA remains vigilant at the local level to watch for other districts taking up similar measures.
Stay compliant. Stay protected. CRA's updated online Sexual Harassment Prevention Course makes it easier than ever for employees to complete their training with interactive content.
Conservative Sen. Josh Hawley wants to raise federal minimum wage
Today, Senator Hawley is set to introduce a bipartisan bill to increase the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour beginning in 2026 with future increases based on inflation.
Front & Back of House Certification These programs are designed to provide restaurant employees with the skills, knowledge, and training needed to perform their job responsibilities.
Already have a learning management system? You can purchase these trainings al a carte.
Screenshot of the cover of The Argonaut (digital edition)
A CRA BOARD MEMBER SHOUTOUT Final Call for Tony P's
Owners Tony Palermo and Danny Ringwood are embarking on a new chapter as they retire after 50 years in the restaurant industry. This bittersweet farewell marks the end of an era, as Tony and Danny have made a lasting impression on their community, loved ones, and fellow restaurant owners who have had the privilege of sharing ideas and memories with them.
We sincerely thank you for everything you have contributed to the California Restaurant Association. We look forward to seeing you enjoy your well-deserved years of relaxation. Cheers!
CALIFORNIA RESTAURANT FOUNDATION Meet the Restaurant Brands Competing in the Culinary + Cocktail Clash!
Restaurant executives and leaders from 12 restaurant brands have been paired with a ProStart student sous chef to create a one-of-a-kind bite! You can taste them all at the Culinary + Cocktail Clash presented by Coca-Cola on June 17 in Irvine! The teams: BJ’s Restaurants, The Cheesecake Factory, Karl Strauss Brewing Co., Lazy Dog, Lawry’s, Pacifica Hotels, Outback Steakhouse, SAVOR, Specialty Restaurants, Stonefire Grill, Urban Plates, and Wedgewood Weddings.
RESOURCE FROM EISNERAMPER One, Big, Beautiful Bill for Tipped Employees
President Trump’s proposed tax bill includes a provision for tipped employees, allowing them to deduct taxes on tips up to $25,000 if they earn under $160,000 annually. While this tax break aims to enhance take-home pay, many may find they don't qualify.