Are there any state laws that protect employees from wrongful termination?

Yes, there are state laws in California that protect employees from wrongful termination. California is an “at-will” employment state, meaning employers and employees can terminate employment at any time and for any reason, subject to certain exceptions. These exceptions include termination due to discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, disability, age, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, or military status. It is also illegal to terminate an employee in retaliation for filing a complaint about unfair labor practices or for exercising other legal rights. In addition, it is illegal for employers to terminate employees for whistleblowing, which is reporting illegal activity. Employers are also limited in how they can terminate employees who are part of a union, as certain rules and procedures must be followed before any terminations can occur. Lastly, employers cannot terminate employees for asserting certain workplace rights, such as taking leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act or the California Family Rights Act. In California, it’s important that employers follow all state laws when terminating an employee to ensure the termination is not wrongful. Any employee who believes they have been wrongfully terminated can file a claim with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing or pursue legal action through the civil court system.

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