September 25, 2024

New Labor Agency attorney appointed to oversee PAGA reform

SACRAMENTO — Today the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency welcomed Todd Ratshin, Deputy Secretary for Enforcement, who was appointed by Governor Newsom on Sept. 20. Ratshin has a distinguished resume as a labor lawyer and most recently served as chief counsel at the state Agricultural Labor Relations Board.

Todd Ratshin swearing-in ceremony.

From left: Stewart Knox, LWDA Secretary; Lisa Powell, LWDA General Counsel; Todd Ratshin, LWDA Deputy Secretary for Enforcement.

In his new role, Ratshin will oversee the Labor Agency’s implementation of reforms to the Private Attorneys General Act, the longstanding law that allows employees to sue companies for violations of the state Labor Code.

“In July the governor signed PAGA reforms that will improve conditions for workers and businesses alike, giving employers the opportunity to cure violations, quickly making employees whole, and creating higher penalties for egregious actors,” said Labor Agency Secretary Stewart Knox.

The new cure process is effective October 1. LWDA currently is hiring attorneys throughout the state to join the team implementing these new reforms.

Visit our website for answers to frequently asked questions about PAGA and for information on how to file a PAGA claim.