California continues to offer some of the most robust protections for workers across the United States. As you continue to navigate the workforce in 2025, there are several new laws that you should be aware of. Staying informed of what your legal rights are is critical to protecting your rights and being treated fairly.
Additional Protections for Freelance Workers
The Freelance Worker Protection Act (Senate Bill No. 988) took effect on January 1, 2025. The bill has several provisions affecting freelance workers.
- The bill requires that freelance workers have written contracts that outline service terms and payment details.
- Contractors must be paid in accordance with the contract or 30 days after work is completed if no date is listed.
- Freelancers have a right to be free from discrimination and retaliation.
A freelance worker is defined as a person or organization that is hired to perform services that are valued at $250 or more.
Driver’s License Requirements for Job Postings
According to California Senate Bill No. 1100, employers are no longer able to advertise job postings, applications, or other material that indicates that an applicant must have a driver’s license. The bill took effect on January 1, 2025. There are some exceptions. Both of the following conditions would need to be satisfied.
- The employer reasonably expects that driving is one of the essential job functions for the position.
- The employer reasonably expects that any job function requiring transportation could not feasibly be met through alternative means.
The point of law is to prevent discrimination against people who may not be able to obtain a driver’s license for various reasons. This bill expands the list of categories that employers are unable to discriminate against.
Leave Policies for Crime Victims and Jury Duty
California Senate Bill No. 2499 aims to prevent unlawful discrimination for crime victims and those selected to serve on a jury. The bill also took effect on January 1, 2025. It has several key provisions.
- The bill offers protection from retaliation against taking leave during these periods.
- The bill gives employees the ability to use vacation or paid sick leave during these periods.
- The bill requires that employers give their employees notice that they have these rights at the time that they are hired.
As outlined by the bill, you could take time away from work if you’ve been the victim of a crime or abused in a domestic setting.
Mandatory Political and Religious Meetings
The California Worker Freedom from Employer Intimidation Act (Senate Bill No. 399) makes it illegal for employers to retaliate against workers who refuse to attend employer-sponsored meetings of a political or religious nature. The law took effect January 1, 2025, and also applies to union-related discussions. In effect, the bill seeks to protect workers from coercion in the workplace.
Getting Legal Help for Workplace Violations
Despite the fact that California offers robust workplace protections for both workers and independent contractors, discrimination and retaliation remain relatively common. It is important for workers to understand their legal rights. If you’re unsure about what your legal rights are in a particular situation, it is best to speak with an experienced employment law attorney.
Have you or someone that you care about been the victim of discrimination or retaliation in the workplace? Our team of labor law attorneys at The Labor Champ is here to help you. We care deeply that workers are aware of their rights and that employers are held accountable for their illegal actions. Whether you just have legal questions or are wondering how an attorney might be able to assist in your particular situation, you are always welcome to speak with us. You can contact our office anytime for a risk-free consultation at 949-727-9300.
