Minimum wage, the felony murder rule, probation rules, and police reforms that took effect January 1, 2022.
Beginning January 1, 2022, California enacted many important reforms to its legal justice system. Below are some of the key changes that took effect.
$15 Minimum Wage
Beginning January 1, 2022, a $15/hour minimum wage kicked in for companies with 25 or more employees. Companies with fewer than 25 employees must pay $14 per hour.
Mandatory Minimums
Mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent drug offenses will be eliminated, and judges will have more discretion in granting probation or alternative sentences.
Felony Murder Rule
Felony murder will now be restricted to only those accomplices who intended to kill or directly participated. Previously, any accomplice in a felony could face a murder conviction if someone died during the crime.
Probation Violators
Courts must now presume that individuals arrested for probation violations should be released on their own recognizance ("OR") unless they pose a public safety or flight risk.
Law Enforcement Bills
- Minimum age to become a police officer increases to 21 from 18
- Prohibition on restraint techniques or arrest methods involving substantial asphyxiation risk
- Severe restrictions on rubber bullet use against protesters
- Police misconduct records will be expanded and made public
Gender-Neutral Store Displays
Companies with 500 or more employees must display toys in gender-neutral ways. Enforcement begins in 2024.
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