Business
San Diego expands enforcement against wage theft
The City Council voted 8–0 to let San Diego pursue civil action to recover unpaid wages and overtime.
San Diego’s City Council unanimously approved amendments Tuesday that strengthen the city’s ability to enforce its wage-theft laws. The municipal code previously did not authorize the city to bring civil actions for unpaid wages and overtime.
Councilmembers Marni von Wilpert and Sean Elo-Rivera proposed the changes. The package also includes technical updates intended to align the city’s earned-sick-leave rules with California law.
Vote: 8–0, with Councilmember Vivian Moreno absent
Key change: Civil action to recover unpaid wages and overtime
Minimum wage: San Diego’s rate rises from $17.75 to $18.35 on January 1, 2027
City adds another enforcement route
Wage theft can include unpaid overtime, off-the-clock work, withheld tips, unlawful paycheck deductions and missed meal or rest breaks. Supporters said stronger local enforcement is needed because many violations are never reported.
Original reporting: KPBS / City News Service — October 13, 2026 →
Official records: City of San Diego council meeting documents →