📅 2026 Update: Key Changes in Employment Law

Since the original article was published, there have been several important changes in employment law that affect workers and employers alike. These updates influence various aspects, such as overtime pay, non-compete agreements, and family leave policies. The earlier article continues further down the page for additional context.

⚖️ Overtime Salary Thresholds

The federal minimum salary for overtime-exempt employees remains at $684 per week or $35,568 annually. A 2024 attempt by the Department of Labor to increase this threshold was vacated by federal courts. This means that many workers who expect higher pay for overtime may not see changes anytime soon.

🚫 Non-Compete Agreements

In a significant development, the Federal Trade Commission's 2024 proposal to ban most non-compete agreements was blocked by federal courts. By February 12, 2026, the FTC formally removed this rule from regulations. Employees can still face non-compete clauses depending on state laws, which vary widely.

🏢 California's PAGA Reforms

California's Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) underwent reforms effective June 19, 2024. These changes introduced reduced penalties and new cure rights for employers, affecting how employees can enforce labor law violations. This may influence how workers approach claims related to workplace issues.

👶 New Jersey Family Leave Act Expansion

Starting July 17, 2026, New Jersey's Family Leave Act will cover employers with 15 or more employees, down from 30. Employees will now be eligible after working 250 hours in the preceding three months. This expansion aims to provide more workers with access to family leave.

📈 California Minimum Wage Increase

California's minimum wage is set to increase to $16.90 per hour on January 1, 2026. This rise continues the trend toward higher wages in the state, which could impact employees' overall earnings and the labor market.

📌 Summary of Key Points

  • ⚖️ Overtime salary threshold remains at $684/week.
  • 🚫 Non-compete agreements are still enforceable based on state regulations.
  • 🏢 California's PAGA reforms lead to lower penalties for employers.
  • 👶 New Jersey expands family leave eligibility for more workers.
  • 📈 California minimum wage rises to $16.90/hour.

💡 Tips for Navigating Employment Law

Review the details of your situation with your attorney to ensure you understand your options.

📅 Know Your Filing Deadlines

It's important to remember that the deadline to file a charge with the EEOC is usually 180 calendar days from the date of discrimination. In some cases, this can extend to 300 days if a local agency enforces similar laws.

🏛️ Utilize Free Resources

Organizations like the Volunteer Lawyers Network provide free legal advice to low-income individuals facing employment law issues. Accessing these resources can be a good first step if you need assistance.

📄 Understand Your Rights Under PAGA

If you work in California, familiarize yourself with the reforms to PAGA. These changes affect how labor law violations can be enforced and may impact your ability to claim penalties.

📈 Keep Up With Minimum Wage Changes

Stay informed about minimum wage increases in your state. For example, California's minimum wage will be $16.90 per hour starting January 1, 2026. Knowing this helps you understand your earning potential.

🔍 Research State-Specific Laws

Laws can differ significantly from one state to another. Knowing your state’s regulations, such as non-compete agreements and family leave requirements, can better prepare you for any legal matters.

🏆 Employment Law Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section highlights services relevant to employment law, focusing on contract-related needs and legal document preparation. The order is based on Trustpilot data checked in October 2026. Star ratings provide a snapshot of customer satisfaction, but remember they represent only part of the picture.

🥇 1. ContractsCounsel

ContractsCounsel has been rated 4.8 on Trustpilot. This service is known for its expertise in contract drafting, contract review, and legal document preparation. However, it is important to note that their offerings are limited to contract-related services, which might not cover broader employment law needs.

🆓 Free Legal Assistance

Organizations like the Volunteer Lawyers Network offer free legal advice for low-income individuals facing employment law issues. They provide valuable support without cost, making it easier for those in need to get help.

🔎 Comparison Factors

  • 🔍 Check customer ratings and reviews.
  • 💼 Consider the types of legal services offered.
  • 📅 Look for responsiveness and customer support.
  • 📜 Evaluate the clarity of service terms and costs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What should I do if I experience workplace discrimination?

If you face discrimination, document incidents and consider filing a charge with the EEOC within 180 calendar days. This ensures you stay within the deadline to protect your rights.

📅 How can I file a charge with the EEOC?

To file a charge, complete the EEOC Form 5. This form can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at a field office.

🔍 What is the impact of California's PAGA reforms?

The reforms to California's PAGA may lead to lower penalties for employers, changing how labor law violations are enforced and potentially affecting employees’ claims.

🏢 How does New Jersey’s Family Leave Act affect me?

As of July 17, 2026, the Family Leave Act will apply to employers with 15 or more employees, allowing more workers to take family leave after working 250 hours in three months.

📈 What minimum wage can I expect in California?

Effective January 1, 2026, California's minimum wage will be $16.90 per hour. Knowing this helps workers understand their earning potential in the state.

🚫 Are non-compete agreements enforceable everywhere?

No, the enforceability of non-compete agreements varies by state. Some states have outright bans, while others have restrictions based on income or specific conditions.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Impacting Employment Law

Recent court rulings have shaped the landscape of employment law, particularly regarding overtime salary thresholds and non-compete agreements. These decisions can affect how employees understand their rights and protections in the workplace.

For updates on similar rulings, check out more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Getting An Employment Law Attorney



If you feel as though you have been discriminated against at work or harassed, you need to seek out an employment law attorney.  Employment law attorneys understand the laws, both federal as well as state that apply to workers.  They can help you fight to get your job back or may be able to get you compensation for loss of job or discrimination.  Employment law attorneys are well versed with both federal law when it comes to employment practices as well as state laws that apply when it comes to employees in various states.  You can use an employment law attorney if you have any dispute regarding your employment. 


 Those who have been wrongfully dismissed can also seek out an employment law attorney.  In some cases, the employment law attorneys can help people get their jobs back if they have been fired.  Those who use employment law attorneys can often get justice when it comes to being fired from a job if they do not live in a state where someone can be fired for any reason.  Your attorney will be able to take a look at your case and see if you have just cause for initiating any sort of legal action against your employer. If you feel you are getting a raw deal at work, you can use employment law attorneys to help them when it comes to getting justice for yourself in the workplace or perhaps even get your job back after you have been wrongfully dismissed.