Author, Jadyn Brandt, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
Starting January 1, 2025, a number of new laws will be on the books for employers in California. Here’s a look at two of the changes business owners need to be aware of at the start of the new year.
First, Senate Bill 1100 (SB 1100)bars employers from requiring a driver’s license for a job, unless that job satisfies a two-part test. Employers will only be able to include a driver’s license requirement in a job posting if they “reasonably expect driving to be one of the job functions for the position,” and “reasonably believes […] using an alternative form of transportation (including ride hailing, carpooling, walking or biking) would not be comparable in travel time or cost,” according to the law.
Another new law worth noting requires multiple updates to workers’ compensation and whistleblower posters in the workplace. Assembly Bill 1870 (AB 1870) requires employers to add new information to the informational poster titled “Workers’ Compensation Notice to Employees — Injuries Caused by Work.” Starting January 1, 2025, the poster must alert employees that they may take council from a licensed attorney for advice on their legal rights.
Additionally, employers will also need to display a whistleblower notice that discloses an employee’s rights and responsibilities under the state’s whistleblower laws.
It is important that employers across the state of California understand how to implement these new laws within their business, in order to avoid legal penalties and foster a fair and informed workplace. Managers should work with their human resources department to ensure their business is in compliance with these new laws.
Rancho Mesa’s RM365 HRAdvantage™ is a great resource for employers looking to make certain they are up to date with these changes.
These are just a few key laws California employers should keep in mind for the upcoming year.
For a full breakdown of the changing legal landscape, be sure to attend Rancho Mesa’s 2025 Employment Law Workshop, happening Friday, November 22, 2024 from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at the Mission Valley Library.