I’m not sure what SD Realtor had to say on this subject, but the following might be of interest to you on this topic.
California Business & Professions Code section 10137:
Unlawful Employment or Payment of Compensation – Penalty
10137. It is unlawful for any licensed real estate broker to employ or compensate, directly or indirectly, any person for performing any of the acts within the scope of this chapter who is not a licensed real estate broker, or a real estate salesman licensed under the broker employing or compensating him; provided, however, that a licensed real estate broker may pay a commission to a broker of another State.
No real estate salesman shall be employed by or accept compensation from any person other than the broker under whom he is at the time licensed.
It is unlawful for any licensed real estate salesman to pay any compensation for performing any of the acts within the scope of this chapter to any real estate licensee except through the broker under whom he is at the time licensed.
For a violation of any of the provisions of this section, the commissioner may temporarily suspend or permanently revoke the license of the real estate licensee, in accordance with the provisions of this part relating to hearings.
