Governor Newsom's Busy October: New Laws Affecting Employers in 2025

Over the past few months, HR Done Right has been monitoring several employment-related bills that the governor has now signed.

SB 399 - The California Worker Freedom from Employer Intimidation Act. This bill prohibits employers from requiring employees to attend “captive audience meetings,” and from taking adverse action against those who choose not to attend.

AB 2499 – Modifies existing workplace protections for employees who are victims of crime or abuse.

AB 1034 - extends the PAGA exemption for certain unionized employers in the construction industry until January 1, 2038.

SB 1100 - amends the Fair Employment Housing Act (FEHA), forbidding CA employers from telling job applicants that a driver’s license is required unless the position satisfies a two-part test.

SB 988 - Freelance Protection Act (FWPA). This bill expands protections for freelance workers.

SB 1340 - gives local governments the authority to impose stricter anti-discrimination laws 

AB 3234 - requires businesses to share voluntary, non-governmental social compliance audit results with the public.

Are you feeling overwhelmed? We've got you covered; stay tuned for more blogs that go into greater detail about these new laws. If you want further information and happen to be in the Sacramento area, please attend our January Legal Update! To secure a spot, please get in contact with our team. Now is the time for California employers to start getting ready for these new requirements.