As we wind down 2025, here are some of the changes California employers need to be aware of to be prepared in 2026.
State Law
California SB 596: Increases Penalties for Healthcare Staffing Ratio Violations
Senate Bill 20: California Expands Worker Protections Against Silica Dust Exposure
Senate Bill 464: California Mandates Tougher Pay Data Reporting
Senate Bill 590: California’s State Paid Family Leave Extended to Cover Leave for Designated Persons
Assembly Bill 692: California Passes Prohibition Against Workers Contracting to Repay Debts
Senate Bill 294: California Requires New Annual Notice to Employees on Rights
Senate Bill 513: California Expands Personnel File Requirements
Senate Bill 642: California Revises Its Equal Pay Act
Assembly Bill 858: COVID Right of Recall Continues in California
Assembly Bill 1340: California Gives Gig Drivers the Right to Organize
Senate Bill 303: California Sets Forth Protections for Bias Training
Assembly Bill 288: Expanded Worker Rights and PERB’s New Authority
Senate Bill 617: California Expands CalWARN Notice Requirements
Local Ordinances
LA County Extends COVID Era Right of Recall Permanently
Los Angeles Hotel Worker Training Ordinance: Certified Training Providers Announced
LA County Passes Hotel Worker Protection Ordinance for Unincorporated Areas of the County
City of San Diego Increases Hospitality Minimum Wage
City of Los Angeles Hotel Workers’ Minimum Wage Increase Is Back
City of Long Beach Staffing for Self-Check Out Ordinance Takes Effect September 21