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Bakersfield, CA Employment Preemption: Minimum Wage Preemption (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

State minimum
$16.50 indexed
Fast food
$20 under AB 1228
Healthcare
$18-$25 under SB 525
City minimum
None local

Summary

Bakersfield workers earn California's statewide minimum wage of $16.50 per hour, indexed annually to inflation under CA Labor Code 1182.12. Bakersfield has not enacted a local minimum wage above the state floor.

1182.12. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part, on and after July 1, 2014, the minimum wage for all industries shall be not less than nine dollars ($9) per hour, and on and after January 1, 2016, the minimum wage for all industries shall be not less than ten dollars ($10) per hour. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), the minimum wage for all industries shall not be less than the amounts set forth in this subdivision, except when the scheduled increases in paragraphs (1) and (2) are temporarily suspended under subdivision (d). (1) For any employer who employs 26 or more employees, the minimum wage shall be as follows ...

Source: California DIRView official code

Full Breakdown

California's statewide minimum wage applies to all Bakersfield employers and rises each January based on the consumer price index, capped at 3.5% annual growth. Special industry minimums apply: fast food workers earn $20 per hour under AB 1228 and healthcare workers earn $18 to $25 under SB 525, both statewide. Bakersfield, unlike Los Angeles, San Francisco, or West Hollywood, has not adopted a citywide local minimum wage. Workers younger than 18 in approved learner programs may earn 85% of minimum for limited hours.

Violations & Fines

Wage and hour violations are enforced by the California Labor Commissioner. Employers face back wages, liquidated damages equal to unpaid amounts, waiting-time penalties up to 30 days of wages, and civil penalties up to $200 per pay period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bakersfield have its own minimum wage?
No. Bakersfield uses the California statewide minimum wage of $16.50 per hour. Industry-specific state floors apply to fast food and healthcare workers but not based on city geography.
How often does the rate go up?
California adjusts the minimum wage every January based on inflation, capped at 3.5% growth annually. Industry-specific rates for fast food and healthcare follow separate adjustment schedules under their enabling statutes.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bakersfield

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All Bakersfield rules

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