Back to School? Nope, just back to some HR Basics…
I’ve spent some of my time this summer articulating Affogato’s values. I realized that I talk to clients about their values all the time. The team talks about what we believe and our approach to HR Management consulting, so I saw that I needed to get out those stone tablets and start carving.
Two values that inform everything we do are Partnership and Stewardship, which flow nicely into a reminder about how we help with a stable foundation, so our clients can build workplaces where employees can thrive.
Part of the value of Partnership is ensuring that you are informed and up to date on compliance issues that might affect you and your company. To that end, here are some updates:
Minimum Wage and Salary Increases Coming January 1
On August 13, 2026, we got news that California’s minimum wage is increasing to $17.40 per hour. That means that the exempt salary will increase to $72,384. Action required now: update your budget. Action required by January 1: review wages and salaries to prepare for any required increases. You’ll also need to update your workplace posters…
Electronic Posters and Employee Handouts
Speaking of posters, failing to display required notices can lead to citations and fines. It’s always frustrated us that there weren’t great options for clients with remote or hybrid workforces (did you really want to ship posters to each employee’s home?). Affogato HR Consulting can provide electronic posters that meet all federal, state, and local labor-law posting requirements. We also furnish access to mandatory employee handouts—covering workers’ compensation rights, family-leave provisions, benefit summaries, and more—so you can distribute them electronically as required. Interested? Let us know and we’ll tell you more.
HR Navigator: On-Demand Employee Support
For selected clients, we offer HR Navigator—a dedicated, employee-facing support service for routine HR inquiries. Whether questions involve policies, general HR questions, or help planning a high-stakes conversation, HR Navigator delivers consistent, expert-support. This service complements our focused HR Management consulting by providing access to HR professional support for all of your employees. Is HR Navigator right for you? Let’s talk.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Introduction
Supporting employee well-being is a strategic advantage, and for some employees it’s an expectation. Many small employers haven’t had access to an EAP, especially those with a limited benefit plan. Affogato HR Consulting can introduce you to a trusted Employee Assistance Program provider. Through confidential counseling, financial coaching, and work-life resources, this partner service helps employees address personal and professional challenges. An effective EAP supports mental-health, reduces turnover risk, and enhances overall engagement. Ready to learn more? We have some great ideas.
Enjoy your Labor Day Weekend!
Your HR Partners,
Jonna, Suzanne, Lisha and Karen
The above/attached information is not a legal advice. It should not be considered as a legal opinion as to which laws apply or as to how any law applies to a particular situation. Companies or individuals should seek advice of Counsel with regards to their situation.