California Code, Labor Code - LAB § 1198.3

(a) The Chief of the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement may, when in his or her judgment hardship will result, exempt any employer or employees from any mandatory day or days off requirement contained in any order of the commission. Any exemption granted by the chief pursuant to this section shall be only of sufficient duration to permit the employer or employees to comply with the requirements contained in the order of the commission, but not more than one year. The exemption may be renewed by the chief only after he or she has investigated and is satisfied that a good faith effort is being made to comply with the order of the commission.

(b) No employer shall discharge or in any other manner discriminate against any employee who refuses to work hours in excess of those permitted by the order of the commission.