California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued his annual Labor Day report. FILE PHOTO (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File)

OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta released his annual Labor Day report highlighting the Justice Department’s ongoing efforts to empower workers.

The report, released ahead of Labor Day on September 2, includes a consumer alert with resources and information to educate the public about human trafficking for forced purposes.

Bonta said he was inspired by his parents’ fight for better working conditions and fair wages for Filipino and Latino farm workers, as well as by his fights with union leaders such as Dolores Huerta, Larry Itliong, Philip Vera Cruz and Cesar Chavez.

“Today, I am honored to continue fighting for workplace justice on behalf of the people of California,” said the Filipino-American attorney general.

“My office is proud to stand with workers this Labor Day and all year long. From holding labor law violators accountable and combating unfair competition, to combating human trafficking and fighting for stronger workplace protections, I will continue to fight for the millions of workers who are the backbone of California.”

In the report, Bonta identifies 10 things that employees should know about their rights:

1. You have the right to associate and join trade unions.
2. You can be an employee even if you are called a contractor.
3. You have several important rights regarding pay and working hours, including the right to the minimum wage.
4. Your wages, tips, and accrued vacation time belong to you.
5. You may be entitled to time off – including paid and unpaid parental leave.
6. California law protects you against sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
7. You may be entitled to unemployment benefits if you are fired or quit your job for a valid reason.
8. You may be entitled to compensation through workers’ compensation.
9. You can rightly refuse to perform dangerous work.
10. Your employer has no right to retaliate against you for exercising your rights.

If you believe any of the above rights may have been violated, the report provides additional information on how to get help. A copy of the 2024 Labor Day Report is available here.

Want stories like this delivered straight to your inbox? Stay up to date. Stay up to date. Subscribe to InqMORNING

Don’t miss the latest news and information.

If you would like to submit feedback, make a complaint or ask a question, please contact us.