Stay Informed with OLSE in the News

Get the latest updates on workers' rights, fair labor practices, and the impact of our work in San Diego County. Explore news articles, stories, and insights that highlight our mission to promote fair and safe workplaces. Stay informed and empowered!

County of San Diego Files Lawsuit Against Sushi Franchise Businesses 

The San Diego County Office of Labor Standards and Enforcement today filed the County’s first major lawsuit against several sushi franchise companies operating sushi counters inside grocery stores statewide alleging that businesses exploited sushi chefs through deceptive labor practices.

The lawsuit names Ace Sushi Franchise Corp., Asiana Management Group, Advanced Fresh Concepts Franchise Corp., Fujisan Franchising, and Fuji Food Products, companies that run branded sushi counters inside grocery stores around the state.

The action alleges the companies misclassified the sushi chefs doing the day-to-day work as “independent contractor franchisees,” when in reality, these workers had no meaningful independence at all. According to the lawsuit, nearly every major decision — from recipes and food quality to schedules, and production requirements — was dictated by the parent companies.

The County is asking the court to stop the alleged practices and award relief, including unpaid wages, liquidated damages, restitution, civil penalties, waiting time penalties, interest, attorneys’ fees, costs and other relief available under California law.

Read more from Yahoo News: San Diego officials sue sushi firms over 'franchisee' misclassification, labor law violations; and Times San Diego: San Diego County sues sushi companies for employment 'scheme'

Watch County News Center or CBS coverage below, Published June 18, 2026

Second Chance Month: Community Partnership

The Fair Chance Workshop and Job Fair at Southeastern Livewell Center connected job seekers with employers focused on second-chance hiring. Over 350 people attended. This annual event was in collaboration with Center for Employment Opportunity, Second Chance, and San Diego Workforce Partnership.

Read more about the Fair Chance Workshop Job Fair, County Communciations Published April 24, 2026

Watch NBC 7 San Diego coverage of the event, Published April 24, 2026

Week of Action: Celebating Workers, Local Businesses and Commuity Partners 

OLSE launched its fourth annual Week of Action, bringing workers, local businesses, and community partners together to highlight labor rights and fair workplace practices across the region.

County Communication News, Published March 26, 2026

County Ordinance Protects Previously Incarcerated People Trying to Find Jobs

San Diego County is working to make sure that previously incarcerated people who have paid their debts to society can truly walk free and pursue job opportunities without the hindrance of their past.

Times of San Diego, Published Aug. 10, 2025

County, State Labor Leaders Celebrate Workers, Give Wage Theft Progress Report

More wage theft victims in San Diego County are getting the pay they’ve earned. County, state and labor leaders delivered that message as they gathered to celebrate workers, and report advances on addressing wage theft.  

County Communication News, Published March 26, 2025

County's 3rd annual Cesar Chavez breakfast aimed at raising awareness for workers

NBC Segment, Published March 26, 2025

Fighting Wage Theft From the Ground Up

Localities and worker centers are joining forces to drive back employers who siphon off their employees’ hard-earned dollars.

Article by Brock Hrehor, Published March 3, 2025

County Leaders Report Progress Fighting Wage Theft

County Communication News, Published March 19, 2024