Do the locally mandated minimum wage ordinances affect the minimum salary requirements for exempt employees?

Generally, no. Local minimum wage ordinances do not affect the salary requirement for exempt employees.

Under Labor Code Section 515, exempt executive, administrative and professional employees must earn a salary of at least twice the state minimum wage for full-time employment and meet the applicable duties test.

Local minimum wage ordinances typically do not change this requirement, unless a municipality specifically adopts a higher salary threshold for exempt employees.

Although uncommon, employers should verify whether any local ordinance imposes a higher exempt salary requirement.

Use the Local Ordinance Wizard on HRCalifornia.

 

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