EmploymentQuestion 978 of 1605
An undocumented worker performs framing labor and is not paid overtime. Can the worker still recover unpaid wages and overtime under California law?
a.Only if the worker first obtains legal status
b.Only the federal minimum wage applies to undocumented workers
c.Yes; California labor protections apply regardless of immigration status
d.No; only authorized workers have wage rights
Explanation
Labor Code §1171.5 declares that all protections of California employment law apply to all individuals regardless of immigration status. An undocumented worker can recover unpaid minimum wage, overtime, and other wage remedies through the DLSE or courts. Employers cannot use a worker's immigration status to escape wage obligations, and full California standards (not just the federal minimum) apply.
Law Reference: Labor Code §1171.5; immigration statusPractice all 1605 questions free — no signup required.
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Reviewed by Abraham Chen — Licensed California General Contractor (CSLB License #1101856 — verify)