On April 15, 2025, the Temecula Valley business community gathered at the beautiful Wilson Creek Winery for an important and timely seminar, “2024 PAGA Reforms: Good News, Bad News about PAGA.” Hosted by Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez of the 71st District in partnership with Wilson Creek Winery, the event delivered critical insights into California’s updated Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) and what it means for employers across the region.

Expert Presenters

Leading the presentation were two powerhouse legal professionals:

• Ashley Hoffman, Senior Policy Advocate at the California Chamber of Commerce
• Hannah Sweiss, Partner at Fisher Phillips

Their in-depth discussion helped demystify the latest changes to PAGA and offered real-world advice on how employers can protect themselves while staying compliant.

What is PAGA?

The Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) allows employees to file lawsuits to enforce California Labor Code violations—on their own behalf, and on behalf of other employees.

• Who Can Sue?
  • Any employee who experienced a wage, hour, or workplace safety violation.
• Scope of Claims:
  • Claims can address violations against the individual and other current or former employees
• Potential Liability:
  • $100 per pay period per affected employee, plus attorney fees and legal costs.

2024 PAGA Reforms: What Changed?

The 2024 PAGA Reform officially took effect on June 19, 2024, bringing substantial relief and clearer guidelines for employers. Most notably, the “look-back period” for new PAGA claims was shortened from five years to one year—a significant reduction in potential exposure.

Three Key Improvements from the Reform:

1. Penalty Modifications: Employers that demonstrate they've taken “all reasonable steps” to comply with labor laws may see penalties reduced by up to 85 percent.
2. Litigation Relief: Reforms addressed concerns related to legal standing, manageability, and derivative claims, helping limit overly broad or duplicative lawsuits.
3. Expanded and Robust Right to Cure Process: Offers employers a structured, tiered process to resolve alleged violations before litigation begins, with specific pathways based on company size.

Seminar Takeaways

The session was both eye-opening and empowering. Attendees gained:

• A clear understanding of what PAGA is and why it matters
• Insights into how the 2024 reforms protect both employers and employees
• Strategies for reducing legal risk and encouraging early resolution

To view all of the presentation slides, please click here.