WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

AB 248

County jails: wages.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Becker and 1 co-sponsor

California now requires county jails to compensate incarcerated workers, establishing wage standards for jail labor to improve equity and post-release financial stability.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 252, Statutes of 2025.
#countyjails #wages
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 248

Legislative bill overview

AB 248 requires California county jails to pay incarcerated individuals for work performed while in custody. The bill establishes wage standards and compensation mechanisms for jail labor, addressing long-standing practices where incarcerated people work without pay or minimal compensation.

Why is this important

Jail labor has historically been unpaid or near-unpaid work, affecting approximately 60,000+ people in California county jails daily. This policy change impacts criminal justice equity, post-release financial stability for formerly incarcerated individuals, and county jail operational budgets and labor practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Counties must determine wage rates and fund compensation systems, potentially straining already-tight jail budgets and raising operational expenses
  • Wage rate disputes: Disagreement over appropriate compensation levels (whether minimum wage, reduced rates, or incentive-based structures should apply)
  • Labor market concerns: Questions about whether paid jail work affects job availability or wage standards for people released from custody, and whether it incentivizes incarceration
  • Practical administration: Challenges implementing payment systems, accounting, and wage deductions for restitution or facility fees across diverse county systems

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.