Protecting Workers' Rights

Safeguarding Your Constitutional Privileges

It is important to know your rights as an employee, especially if you believe you are suffering unlawful treatment in the workplace. The Employment Litigation Section managed by the United States Department of Justice enforces the provisions of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as well as other laws against state and local government employers. These laws are in place prohibiting employment practices for various companies and businesses against any actions or behaviors that discriminate on the level(s) of race, sex, religion and national origin. In addition, the Section, under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, prohibits state and local government employers and private employers from discriminating or retaliating against an employee or applicant for employment due to an individual's past, current, or future military duties.

Know Your Rights

As a worker in California, you are entitled to a number of additional rights, as described by the Department of Industrial Relations. These include, but are not limited to, the right to:

• Receive training about workers' rights and potential workplace dangers from your employer
• Ask for information about potential injuries and illnesses in your workplace and records or data sheets that give further information on hazardous substances in your place of employment
• Request that your employer or supervisor take steps to correct safety violations or hazards
• File a complaint with Cal/OSHA if you believe there are significant workplace dangers or violations of state standards
• File a Cal/OSHA whistleblower or discrimination complaint with the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement

Fight for Justice

Our state has some of the most extensive labor laws in the country, and our legislators take the rights of employees very seriously. The courts in this state tend to favor employees when it comes to any perceived violation of your employment rights and have the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement ready to assist with adjudicating cases involving discrimination, wage claims, public work complaints, and other employment law issues. If you would like to learn more about your rights and legal options as an employee, please contact our team or browse our site for helpful information.