Compliance Stuff

California lawmakers were busy this year, and Gov. Gavin Newsom just signed many bills into law that will impact the workplace starting in 2026. Here is a snapshot guide of some of the top new workplace laws taking effect January 1 (except as otherwise noted), plus links to our deeper dive insights, which include practical compliance tips for employers. We’ll also cover a few key vetoes that will give you a sigh of relief. Top 11 California Workplace Laws Taking Effect in 2026 (and Beyond) 1. Large AI Transparency Law for Frontier Models ( SB 53 ) The Transparency in Frontier Artificial Intelligence Act is the nation’s first comprehensive attempt to require safety and transparency reporting for the most powerful artificial intelligence systems. This move comes one year after Gov. Newsom vetoed a broader AI safety bill that drew criticism for imposing heavy-handed mandates. While the new law represents a strategic shift, it includes core requirements for frontier developers, as well as ...

The California Legislature just wrapped up its work for the year, and now all eyes turn to Governor Newsom, who has until October 12 to sign or veto each of the bills sent to his desk. Any bills signed into law will take effect on January 1, 2026. What are the top bills that employers should be monitoring? 12 Workplace Bills That Await the Governor’s Signature or Veto AI, Privacy, and Workplace Surveillance The hottest topic for legislative discussion and action in 2025 continued to be artificial intelligence and related technology issues. AI alone accounted for the focus of more than three dozen bills considered this year, and California may soon join the growing list of states to enact their own laws related to the use of AI by businesses. Several bills that would impact employers directly made it to Newsom’s desk and are now awaiting further action. These include: SB 7 (“No Robo Bosses”)  – SB 7 is specific to employment-related decisions using AI technology and automated decis...