Are there any exceptions to the minimum wage law?

Yes, there are several exceptions to the minimum wage law in California. These exceptions depend on the type of job, the size of the employer, and which county or city the employer is based in. Employers with 25 or fewer employees are generally exempt from the state-wide minimum wage and can pay a minimum wage of $10 per hour, as of 2020. Also, employers that are in a different county or city from the one where the minimum wage law applies may be exempt from the minimum wage law. Some jobs are also exempt from minimum wage requirements, including those that are contracted out by the government, non-profit organizations, or religious institutions. Additionally, employees may be exempt if they are paid on commission or if their primary source of income comes from tips. Minimum wage requirements may also be waived for certain trainees, students, or apprentices. In certain instances, an employer may agree to pay a lower minimum wage, as long as the employee’s wages do not fall below the federal minimum wage. Finally, employees who are paid on a salary basis may be exempt from the minimum wage law, provided that the employer can prove that the salary covers all of the hours worked and meets certain criteria. In general, employers are expected to abide by the California minimum wage law, but these exceptions will help clarify any confusion.

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