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HomeLabor CodeDiv. 1Ch. 1§ 55 Department Organization Authority

§ 55 Department Organization Authority

Labor Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 55 Department Organization Authority

Key Takeaways

  • •The boss of a department can organize their team however they want, but the Governor has to say it's okay.
  • •The boss can make different parts of the department help enforce the rules, even if that's not their usual job.
  • •The boss can make new rules to help do their job better, but they have to follow certain steps to do it.
  • •These rules don’t apply to the Workers’ Compensation team or the State Compensation Insurance Fund unless the law specifically says so.

Example

Imagine the boss of a school decides that the gym teachers need to help out in the cafeteria sometimes to make sure kids are following the rules.

The boss can do this because they’re in charge, but they need the principal’s (Governor’s) approval. They can also make new rules, like ‘no running in the halls,’ as long as they follow the right steps. But these rules don’t apply to the nurse’s office unless the law says so.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 55 Department Organization Authority

For the purpose of administration the director shall organize the department subject to the approval of the Governor, in the manner he deems necessary properly to segregate and conduct the work of the department. Notwithstanding any provision in this code to the contrary, the director may require any division in the department to assist in the enforcement of any or all laws within the jurisdiction of the department. Except as provided in Section 18930 of the Health and Safety Code, the director may, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11371), Part 1, Division 3, Title 2 of the Government Code, make rules and regulations that are reasonably necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter and to effectuate its purposes. The provisions of this section, however, shall not apply to the Division of Workers’ Compensation or the State Compensation Insurance Fund, except as to any power or jurisdiction within those divisions as may have been specifically conferred upon the director by law. (Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 1097, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 1995.)

Last verified: January 21, 2026

Key Terms

directordepartmentGovernorDivision of Workers’ CompensationState Compensation Insurance Fund

Related Statutes

  • § 53 Department Head Definitions
  • § 54 Director'S Departmental Authority
  • § 54.5 Legal Counsel Appointment Authority
  • § 56 Department Divisions Structure
  • § 57 Division Chiefs Appointment

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Labor Code. Section 55.
View Official Source