New California State Laws take effect starting on January 1st, and like all legislation and laws they may not all affect or apply to you. It’s always good to be aware of when your rights as a California citizen are possibly affected.
State Bill 399 prohibits employers from requiring their workers to attend meetings related to political or religious views. This includes union meetings, both for or against.
Workers cannot be disciplined for refusing to attend these meetings under the new bill.
According to the state law’s text – “Political Matters” is defined as matters relating to elections for political office, political parties, legislation, regulation, and the decision to join or support any political party or political or labor organization.
The bill got its start in 2022 when it was signed only for the City of San Francisco, according to Calmatters.org.
The bill received wide support from union organizers and labor activists – but the California Chamber of Commerce says the bill limits worker’s free speech.
California joins other states like Oregon and Connecticut which have passed similar state laws.
Residents who believe that their labor rights are being violated have recourse through the state – and you can read the entire bill at California’s Legislation website: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB399
