New SMC Labor Office To Enforce Minimum Wage, Worker Protections

REDWOOD CITY, CA — The San Mateo Board of Supervisors this week voted unanimously to create a new office to handle minimum wage enforcement and other labor protections.

The Office of Labor Standards Enforcement will share information with business owners and workers to help better ensure compliance with local laws. According to the county, the new office will have a special focus on low-wage workers, including an advice line for those seeking help with workplace issues.

"The county's economic health depends on industries that tend to pay low wages, including the food service industry, personal care and service industries, janitorial maintenance and healthcare support operations," said Dave Pine, the Board's president. "Having an in-house Office of Labor Standards Enforcement will allow the county to strengthen worker protections, especially for our most vulnerable and at-risk workers."

County officials said creating a standalone office to oversee labor standards was an important step as 11 of San Mateo County's 20 cities have local minimum wage standards. Beginning Jan. 1, the minimum wage for unincorporated areas will rise to $17.06.

Supervisors called underpayment a "vexing issue" for low-wage workers in California, including employers failing to pay required minimum wage and overtime, requiring workers to work off-the-clock, and refusing workers' breaks, costing employees an estimated $2 billion annually. National research from the Economic Policy Insitute found such violations exceeded the value of property crimes committed in the United States.

"The creation of the Office of Labor Standards Enforcement is a significant step forward in San Mateo County, ensuring that small-business owners have the up-to-date information and resources they need to stay in compliance with shifting state and local regulatory laws," said Supervisor Ray Mueller. "At the same time, this office will be supplying workers with a crucial partner in protecting their rights and ensuring that the most vulnerable amongst us are not exploited."

The resolution asks the County Executive's Office to share recommendations for the new office's structure and powers, including enforcement options. The county expects the office to begin operations by July, with an initial focus on education.