For those considering a career in healthcare, California’s new minimum wage bill may provide some extra incentive. Senate Bill No. 525 introduces five separate minimum wage schedules for covered healthcare employees, depending on the type of healthcare facility.
This new legislation presents opportunities for growth for a variety of different healthcare workers in California. Whether you already work in healthcare or are interested in entering the field, it can be useful to be aware of these upcoming changes as you plan for your future.
Here is some more information on how Senate Bill (SB) No. 525 affects the healthcare field andhow ACC’s healthcare programs can help equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a rewarding career path.
Context and Key Provisions of Senate Bill No. 525
This bill provides a strong foundation for building a career in healthcare. It adds two new sections (1182.14 and 1182.15) to the California Labor Code, which will raise the minimum wage for healthcare workers gradually over the next few years.
California residents and visitors rely on healthcare professionals for a range of needs that are integral to their quality of life. Despite the essential nature of healthcare, there are a number of factors that have put a strain on healthcare workers and the industry as a whole.
Newly added section 1182.14 cites shortages and the COVID-19 pandemic as significant drivers of this new legislation:
“Even before the COVID pandemic, California was facing an urgent and immediate shortage of healthcare workers, adversely impacting the health and well-being of Californians, especially
economically disadvantaged Californians. The pandemic has worsened these shortages. Higher wages are needed to attract and retain healthcare workers to treat patients, including being prepared to provide necessary care in an emergency.”
Below are some major takeaways from SB No. 525. For more details, you can view the full bill here.
- Tiered Minimum Wage: The minimum wage increases are tiered based on the type of healthcare facility and employer size.
- Higher Minimum Wage for Larger Facilities: For large healthcare facility employers with 10,000 or more full-time equivalent employees (FTEE), or certain dialysis clinics, the minimum wage for covered healthcare employees starts at $23 per hour from June 1, 2024, increasing to $25 per hour from June 1, 2026.
- Minimum Wage for Specific Clinics: For specified clinics, the minimum wage forcovered healthcare employees starts at $21 per hour from June 1, 2024, increasing to $22 per hour from June 1, 2026, and finally reaching $25 per hour from June 1, 2027
- Minimum Wage for Other Healthcare Facility Employers: For other covered healthcare facility employers, the minimum wage for covered healthcare employees starts at $21 per hour from June 1, 2024, increasing to $23 per hour from June 1, 2026, and reaching $25 per hour from June 1, 2028.
- Implementation: Most healthcare facility employers — like the ones listed above — must implement the updated minimum wage by June 1, 2024. Covered healthcare facilities that are county owned, affiliated, or operated are required to implement the appropriate minimum wage schedule by January 1, 2025
- Enforcement: The healthcare worker minimum wages constitute the state minimum wage for covered healthcare employment under the Labor Code and Industrial Welfare Commission's Wage Orders. They are enforceable by the Labor Commissioner or through civil action.
Shaping the Future of Healthcare Professions
Healthcare workers are the backbone of society. This new bill reflects a greater commitment to ensuring that healthcare workers in California are better supported.
SB No. 525 offers strong opportunities for professionals in a range of healthcare roles. While entry-level healthcare positions may start at the minimum wage, there are possibilities for advancement through further education, certifications, and experience.
Additionally, starting a career in healthcare doesn’t necessarily mean you have to earn a bachelor’s degree or attend medical school. In fact, some healthcare programs can be completed in less than a year.
There are a number of opportunities suited for varying interests spanning from patient care to administrative. Some of the programs at ACC include:
- Medical Assistant – can be completed in as a little as 9 months
- Dental Assisting – can be completed in as a little as 10 months
- Pharmacy Technician – can be completed in as a little as 9 months
Take the First Step Towards a Healthcare Career!
With three campuses in southern California (Los Angeles, Ontario, and Anaheim) and flexible class schedule options, ACC helps prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.
ACC helps set students up for success through hands-on training, industry-current labs, and forward-thinking curricula. Many classes start throughout the year, so depending on the program you choose, you may be able to begin training soon.
To learn more about how ACC can help support you in your healthcare journey, fill out the form on this page and get connected with a member of our team
