A Win for CNAs: California’s Pay Increase Reflects the Value of Frontline Care

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) have always been at the heart of patient care—lifting, listening, and loving on folks when needed. Finally, California is recognizing their worth in a big way with a state-mandated wage increase designed to honor the essential work CNAs do daily.

The Bill Behind the Raise: Senate Bill 525

Signed into law in 2023, Senate Bill 525 (SB 525) sets a new wage standard in the healthcare industry. This bill creates a healthcare-specific minimum wage that includes CNAs—and it’s not just a one-time bump. It’s a step-by-step plan to make sure wages reflect the skill, responsibility, and humanity CNAs bring to their work.

While the original rollout was planned for June 1, 2024, the start date was revised. The new effective date is October 16, 2024.

Wage Schedule: What CNAs Can Expect

The raise amount depends on where a CNA works. Here's how it's being implemented:

1. Large Healthcare Facilities (10,000+ employees):

  • October 16, 2024: $23/hour

  • June 1, 2025: $24/hour

  • June 1, 2026: $25/hour

2. Small/Rural Independent Hospitals & Clinics:

  • October 16, 2024: $18/hour

  • Increases 3.5% annually

  • Reaches $25/hour by June 1, 2033

3. Clinics Meeting Specific Criteria:

  • Oct 2024–May 2026: $21/hour

  • June 2026–May 2027: $22/hour

  • June 1, 2027: $25/hour

4. All Other Covered Healthcare Facilities:

  • Oct 2024–May 2026: $21/hour

  • June 2026–May 2028: $23/hour

  • June 1, 2028: $25/hour

(Source: California Department of Industrial Relations)

Why This Raise Matters

This isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about respect. CNAs work long hours doing physically and emotionally demanding work. This raise means:

  • More financial stability

  • Greater retention and job satisfaction

  • Recognition of CNAs as vital healthcare professionals

For many, it’s a stepping stone to bigger goals—LVN, RN, NP… or whatever their calling may be!

Tips for CNAs: How to Maximize This Moment

This is an excellent time for CNAs to:

  • Explore career advancement options (LVN or RN bridge programs)

  • Take on specialty certifications (restorative, dementia care, etc.)

  • Advocate for continued education, leadership roles, or mentorship opportunities

Conclusion:

California’s SB 525 is more than a raise—it’s a shift in how we value caregivers. To every CNA out there: your work is seen, your heart is appreciated, and your paycheck is finally starting to catch up to your worth. Keep shining, keep serving, and keep dreaming big—this is only the beginning.

#CNAstrong #SB525 #CaliforniaCNAs #HealthcareHeroes #CNAwageincrease
#CNAcareer #FrontlineCare #CNApride #NursingAssistantLife #CNAtoRNGoals

Previous
Previous

5 Things Every New CNA Should Know Before Their First Shift

Next
Next

The Benefits of Using One Company to Renew your BLS, ACLS & PALS Certifications