The University of California (UC) is taking a proactive step in addressing the issue of fair and competitive employee pay by gradually increasing minimum hourly wages for health care workers. Starting on June 1, 2024, the minimum hourly wage for designated health care employees will rise to $23/hour, followed by an increase to $24/hour on June 1, 2025, and $25/hour on June 1, 2026. This move is part of a broader plan to raise the minimum wage for all AFSCME-represented employees to $24 by April of 2025.
UC’s commitment to meeting the most ambitious timeline suggested in California Senate Bill (SB) 525 is reflected in their planned implementation of this bill. Despite ongoing budget concerns, UC remains committed to bringing these changes to certain UC workers as quickly as possible.
Melissa Matella, associate vice president of Employee & Labor Relations at UC Office, expressed excitement about acknowledging and providing wage increases for health care workers. Their dedication and resilience during the pandemic were crucial in ensuring optimal care for patients in the University of California Health system.
In alignment with SB 525, UC will expand the number of overtime-eligible employees to include health care workers earning less than $71,760/year as of June 1st this year, $74,880/year as of June 1st , 2025 and $78,000/year by June 1st , 2026. Health care employees newly eligible for overtime will be informed of these changes and any related timekeeping obligations.
This move is just one aspect of UC’s efforts to enhance its reputation as a great place to work while maintaining comprehensive pay, leave and benefits offerings. Recent improvements include proposed expanded paid sick leave and paid leave following reproductive loss starting January 1st ,