CaliforniaAB 11702025-2026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Maintenance of the codes.

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Bill Overview

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207 provisions identified: 117 benefits, 28 costs, 62 mixed.

Stronger placement rules for Indian children

When an Indian child is removed under Section 361, agencies must use a set placement order. Extended family and tribe‑approved homes get priority, and a tribe’s own order controls if it has one. Leaving the preference order needs clear and convincing proof of good cause. Ordinary bonding or socioeconomic status alone is not enough. The state keeps placement records forever and must give them to the child’s tribe within 14 days of request.

Deed bans on ADUs are void

Private deed rules that ban or unreasonably block an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or junior ADU on a single‑family lot are void. Reasonable limits that do not make building much more costly or effectively prohibit an ADU are still allowed. This lets eligible homeowners build or use an ADU when they meet state ADU rules.

Cash awards for National Board teachers

Certified teachers who agree to teach five years at a high‑priority school can get up to $25,000, paid $5,000 a year. Teachers who start certification while at a high‑priority school can get $2,500. Those who start maintenance of certification on or after July 1, 2023 can get $495. Awards are paid only if the Budget Act funds them, and service before July 1, 2021 does not count toward the five‑year term.

Job rights after military service

If you are a public employee who leaves for active military service and are released under conditions other than dishonorable, you can return to your job within six months after service ends, if your term did not expire. You may also return during terminal leave. After you return, you cannot be fired without cause for one year, and you can rejoin employer insurance and other benefits under the rules in place when you left. When an MOU conflicts with this section, the MOU controls, but any part that needs new money takes effect only if the Legislature funds it in the Budget Act.

Higher pay and support for preschools

State Preschool contractors get $12,968 per child for full‑day and $5,621 for part‑day starting July 1, 2021, with annual COLAs. From January 1, 2022, pay is at least the 2018 regional 75th percentile or the December 31, 2021 per‑child rate plus COLA, whichever is higher. The state may give temporary rate boosts when funded. The department will post a support webpage by January 1, 2026 if funded. Contractors receiving ARP stabilization grants must complete a one‑time survey before funds are paid.

Gun violence and school safety fund

The law creates the Gun Violence Prevention and School Safety Fund. Each year it directs $75 million to local violence‑intervention grants. It provides $50 million to K–12 safety, $15 million to court firearm‑relinquishment grants, and $15 million to DOJ victim grants, when the Legislature appropriates. It provides $2.5 million per year to DOJ purchaser information and $2.5 million per year to emergency services, if appropriated, plus up to $1 million one time to UC Davis. Amounts adjust each year with the California CPI, and agencies may use up to 5% for administration.

Large platforms must remove fake election posts

Large online platforms must use modern tools to find and remove materially deceptive election content when a valid report is made and the platform knew or recklessly ignored the falsity. If a reported post meets the rules, it must be removed within 72 hours. Platforms must also remove identical or very similar reposts they already removed. These duties apply from 120 days before a California election until election day, or until 60 days after if the content is about elections officials.

Mobilehome late payment and cure rules

Nonpayment is a cause for termination only after the amount is at least five days late. After that, management must give a three‑day pay‑or‑quit notice, and paying within three days fixes the problem. The park must send copies of the notice to the legal owner and lienholders within 10 days. A legal owner, junior lienholder, or registered owner can also pay within 30 days to cure, up to twice in 12 months. But after three three‑day notices in the past 12 months, the park may skip another three‑day notice and give a 60‑day removal notice.

New foreclosure sale protections and fee

Starting January 1, 2031, a trustee cannot sell a home at the initial sale for less than 67% of fair market value provided to the trustee at least 10 days before. The valuation must be recent and from a broker, appraiser, or approved model; if the home is not sold, the trustee must postpone at least seven days. Also starting January 1, 2031, if the trustee gets a qualifying listing or purchase agreement at least five business days before the sale, the sale must be postponed at least 45 days (once per scheduled date). Sale notices for homes up to four units must include a summary in English and other required languages. A small extra $50 trustee fee also applies in narrow owner‑occupied cases tied to Unruh Act contracts.

Young child credit—more families qualify

Families with a child under 6 can claim the Young Child Tax Credit. The credit equals $1,176 times the state EITC adjustment factor. Undocumented parents who meet all other rules are eligible. Starting January 1, 2022, people with zero or negative earned income may qualify if net losses and wages each do not exceed $30,000, with limits recomputed each year. The Franchise Tax Board sets rules to run the credit and stop improper claims. The credit only applies in years the Budget Act funds FTB oversight.

Faster affordable housing approvals with guardrails

Government actions to lease, sell, or fund streamlined affordable housing are exempt from CEQA to speed approvals. But projects cannot use streamlining on protected sites like wetlands, prime farmland, very high fire‑risk areas without mitigation, or listed hazardous or flood areas unless specific exceptions are met. Projects also cannot use streamlining to demolish rent‑restricted, tenant‑occupied (past 10 years), or historic housing. In the coast, starting January 1, 2025, eligible projects need a coastal permit that must be approved if they meet objective local coastal rules; density bonuses and parking incentives are not a reason to deny. All projects on a site (and some adjacent split‑off parcels after January 1, 2023) count toward total unit calculations, and these streamlining rules end January 1, 2036.

Clearer probation case plans for youth

Probation must document child and family team input in case plans. Plans must list placement reasons, goals, visits, school stability, and health and education info. They must include discharge and aftercare steps for short‑term residential programs and updates for permanency hearings.

Stronger protections for missing foster youth

The law defines when a child is “missing from foster care,” including for nonminors if they did not leave voluntarily or face serious harm. Counties must identify and document youth who are, or are at risk of, commercial sexual exploitation and connect them to services. If a foster child is missing, counties must act fast and notify parents, the child’s attorney, the court, tribes, and law enforcement immediately, and no later than 24 hours. Notices include a social worker contact and follow trauma‑informed practices; sibling notice is limited for safety.

State workers paid during budget delays

For the 2024–25 and 2026–27 fiscal years, if the Budget Act is not passed by July 1, the Controller uses a continuous appropriation to pay covered state employees. Pay covers compensation and benefits for work performed until the Budget Act is enacted. The Controller may spend only what is necessary for that period.

Health plans must cover mental health

Health plans that cover medical or surgical care must also cover medically necessary mental health and substance use treatment on equal terms. Plans cannot limit care to short‑term treatment. If in‑network providers are not available in time, plans must arrange out‑of‑network care at in‑network cost sharing.

Hospitals must take required transfers

Hospitals with a duty to provide care must accept or arrange patient transfers when obligated. They must have staff and equipment to care for accepted transfers. Transfers are not required if they pose a medical hazard or the county hospital lacks capacity. Liable insurers must pay reasonable charges, and hospitals that wrongly refuse can be liable.

Loan repayment for mental health providers

The state offers loan‑repayment grants to licensed mental health providers who give direct care in public settings or shortage areas. You must commit to at least one year of service. Grants can be paid in installments and cannot exceed your student loan balance.

More EPSDT services for Medi-Cal kids

Medi‑Cal now covers all age‑specific checkups and services listed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Bright Futures under EPSDT. It also covers any other medically necessary assessments and services beyond those lists. This expands preventive and treatment care for children.

New VEBA provider risk-sharing pilot

A southern California pilot lets large VEBAs (over 100,000 people) contract with approved providers in risk‑sharing arrangements. Providers must be licensed, meet solvency and consumer‑protection rules, and report on cost, outcomes, and satisfaction. Participants reimburse up to $500,000 in state oversight costs. The pilot runs no earlier than January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2027, and the section remains in effect until January 1, 2030.

Easier rules to build ADUs

Cities can allow ADUs in single‑family and multifamily zones and must set clear, objective standards. No minimum lot size is allowed for ADUs. ADUs can be rented but usually cannot be sold separately. Size caps: attached ADUs up to 50% of your home; detached up to 1,200 sq ft. No passageway is required; no setbacks for conversions; new detached ADUs can have side and rear setbacks up to four feet. Parking is capped at one space per ADU or per bedroom, tandem/driveway allowed, and demolished parking for an ADU usually need not be replaced. If you demolish a garage to build an ADU, the demo permit is issued with the ADU approval.

Long‑term affordability on surplus homes

If a housing public agency keeps surplus residential property, it must use it as affordable housing under a recorded covenant. Rentals must stay affordable for at least 55 years. Owner‑occupied affordable homes must stay restricted for at least 45 years. Caltrans can assign an agency to monitor and require reports every five years, and charge monitoring fees.

More homes for low‑income veterans

At least 50% of awarded capital funds must house extremely low‑income veteran households. Of the units for extremely low‑income households, at least 60% must be supportive housing. When checking income for these homes, service‑connected disability benefits do not count. Funds are offered and applications are scored on the same timeline and rules used by the Multifamily Housing Program, with extra points allowed.

More housing help for veterans

The state runs programs that pair housing with services for veterans who are homeless or at risk. If an extremely low‑income veteran unit goes unfilled for 60 days, a sponsor may petition to lease it to a secondary tenant; agencies must decide in 30 days. If placement fails after 28 days, sponsors can match secondary tenants; after 14 more days, they may match veterans up to 60% of area median income. Approved matches adjust the unit’s AMI and rent, and the project must replace a comparable 30% AMI unit within 12 months. Referral groups must document good‑faith efforts, including 90 days of advertising and work with homeless service and VA partners.

More notice before park use changes

If the park plans a change of use and needs permits, it must give at least 60 days’ written notice before going to the local board. After permits are approved, it must give at least six months’ written notice before termination. If no permits are needed, it must give 12 months’ written notice. All notices must clearly describe the proposed change.

Stronger foreclosure sale notices and updates

Trustees must post, publish, and record a sale notice at least 20 days before the sale, with weekly publication for three weeks. Notices must include contact details, unpaid balance, and property info, and be posted on a door for single‑family homes when possible. Trustees must give free, 24/7 updates on sale dates or delays. Notices must also tell tenants about possible purchase rights after the auction.

Stronger mobilehome termination protections

Beginning February 1, 2025, a park cannot end a tenancy for nonpayment or change of use unless it holds a valid operating permit. The law also defines which lenders and loan servicers count as a “financial institution” for mobilehome notice and cure rules.

Women-only housing for female veterans

The law lets providers offer women‑only housing for female veterans and their children. It applies when a woman veteran has faced military sexual abuse, trauma, intimidation, or seeks housing due to sexual or domestic violence. Services in these homes focus on treating that trauma. Only female veterans and their children can live there.

College basic needs centers and help

Every community college already must have a Basic Needs Coordinator and Center to connect students to food, housing, and other help. By July 1, 2025, each CSU campus must do the same and name a Basic Needs Coordinator. Campuses must streamline applications, post a basic needs web tab, do outreach, and report results. System leaders send yearly reports to the Governor and Legislature.

Faster, clearer CSU transfer path

When a new transfer model curriculum is created, community colleges must launch an ADT for it within 18 months. Within 12 months, CSU campuses must decide if it matches a bachelor’s degree, admit ADT earners to similar majors, and keep post‑transfer work to 60 units if students stay on the ADT path.

KIDS Accounts: deposits and privacy rules

For 2021–22, each eligible unduplicated pupil in grades 1–12 gets a $500 KIDS Account deposit. Foster youth get an extra $500, and homeless pupils get another $500. The program uses secure data sharing with the education department, and individual records are exempt from public records requests. Undocumented pupils are eligible under federal law cited in the statute.

Local fee waivers at West Valley-Mission

West Valley‑Mission Community College District may use local general funds to waive fees for students with the greatest need when other waivers are not available. The policy must include a 3‑year fiscal impact projection and be presented publicly. By March 1, 2028, the district must report how funds were used, who got help (by age, race, unit load, and income), and any services reduced.

More KIDS Account deposits for students

Beginning in 2022–23, each eligible first grader at a public school gets $500 in a KIDS Account. First graders who are foster youth get an extra $500, and those who are homeless get another $500. Starting in 2025–26, if funded, foster youth in grades 1–12 get $500, plus a one‑time extra $500 if they never got a foster deposit before; this foster deposit authority ends January 1, 2029. For 2023–24 and 2024–25, the program’s board works with Los Angeles Unified and Riverside County to boost participation and shares student IDs under privacy rules; a report is due by September 30, 2025.

Seniors must file FAFSA or opt out

High schools must confirm every 12th grader files the FAFSA or, if eligible, the California Dream Act form. Parents or eligible students can sign a state opt‑out form. Schools must help students, allow exemptions if a student cannot complete the form, protect data, and not punish noncompliance.

Refundable young child tax credit for parents

If your Young Child Tax Credit is bigger than your tax, you get the extra money as a refund. The state pays it from the Tax Relief and Refund Account. The refund is treated like the federal Earned Income Tax Credit when the state checks your eligibility and amounts for welfare benefits. This rule applies beginning January 1, 2022.

Extra density for land gifts or childcare

If you donate qualifying land for very low‑income homes, you get a 15% density bonus for the whole project. That 15% can stack with other bonuses up to a 35% max, if strict size, timing, zoning, permits, and funding rules are met. If you include or adjoin a childcare center, the city must grant extra density tied to the center’s square footage or give another real concession. The city may require the center to operate for the full affordability period and serve low‑income kids in line with your affordable unit share. The city can deny the childcare bonus only if the area already has enough childcare.

Faster city approvals for housing

The law gives qualifying multifamily projects a ministerial path with recorded affordability covenants (55 years for rentals, 45 years for ownership). Cities must use only objective rules in place when you applied and approve if you meet them. Planning staff have 60 days (≤150 units), 90 days (>150), or 30 days for resubmittals; if they miss it, your project is deemed consistent. Design review must be objective and finish in 90 days (≤150 units) or 180 days (>150). Cities must issue later permits without unreasonable delay and may not add extra steps or new standards. If rules conflict, the general plan controls, and density is consistent if you meet the land‑use maximum. Certain 65852.24 projects are deemed consistent if they include no hotel or similar transient use.

No local monitoring fees for 100% low‑income projects

Cities and counties cannot charge a monitoring fee on a qualifying 100% low‑income project that has a density bonus and a recorded agreement with TCAC, CalHFA, or HCD. The applicant must provide the Tax Credit Reservation Letter before the building permit and submit the monitoring and agreement documents. Beginning January 1, 2025, qualifying projects already in service stop paying existing local monitoring fees.

Quicker approval for small subdivisions

Cities must approve qualifying small maps ministerially, usually 10 or fewer parcels and 10 or fewer homes, if strict zoning, size, utility, affordability, and site rules are met. Some parts took effect January 1, 2024, and most on July 1, 2024. Qualifying subdivisions can also skip CEQA if they meet objective standards and one test: use low‑income housing tax credits, sit on a legal parcel in a city that includes an urbanized area, or be in an urbanized area/cluster in a county over 250,000 people.

Easier approval for electrified security fences

If a commercial property meets state electrified fence rules, cities and counties cannot ban it or require permits beyond an alarm permit. Near homes or within 300 feet of parks, schools, or similar sites, local governments may require an administrative permit to confirm compliance. This authority sunsets January 1, 2028.

Electrified security fences allowed on lots

Owners of qualifying nonresidential outdoor lots may install electrified security fences. The fence must sit behind a non‑electrified fence at least 5 feet high. It must meet safety limits, include warning signs, and use solar‑charged batteries no higher than 12 volts DC. The allowance sunsets January 1, 2028.

Lower fines for street food vendors

Criminal penalties are removed for compact mobile food operations and sidewalk vendors. Fines are administrative: up to $100 for a second violation, $200 for a third, and up to $500 for more within one year. Operating without a permit can be fined up to three times the permit cost. Agencies must consider ability to pay and may accept 20% in some cases.

More help for small and veteran businesses

The state creates an Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services. It keeps a bidders list, offers training and bid help, and works with other small and DVBE programs. It also builds a single statewide small business certification form and markets state certification to federally certified disadvantaged businesses.

Easier fixes for mail ballot signatures

Your mail ballot envelope signature is presumed to be yours, and an exact match is not required. Officials cannot consider party, race, or ethnicity in signature checks and must meet a high bar before rejecting a ballot. You can cure by sending a signature verification statement by 5 p.m. two days before certification, or in person before polls close. Officials may use more ways and existing contact info to notify and collect your signature. A temporary elections rule ends July 1, 2025 and is repealed January 1, 2026.

Model policies for missing foster youth

The state develops model policies and procedures to help counties respond when foster youth go missing. It consults county leaders, former foster youth, child advocates, education and health agencies, law enforcement, and experts on sexual exploitation. The department may use all‑county letters before formal regulations.

More time to prosecute some crimes

The law updates filing deadlines and tolling rules for certain crimes. It adds delayed‑discovery rules for offenses that hide evidence, allows later charging of some sexual offenses against minors with corroboration, and tolls time while a defendant is out of state (up to three years). It also extends tolling in child‑victim subpoena disputes and for DNA identification and hidden recordings. These changes let prosecutors bring some cases later when evidence emerges.

New DOJ unit to fight labor trafficking

The Department of Justice created a Labor Trafficking Unit. It takes reports from government and law enforcement, refers cases for investigation or court action, and coordinates with labor and civil rights agencies. The unit uses a victim‑centered approach and informs victims about services. Two state departments must send related data to the unit every quarter.

Voting rights protected under conservatorship

You are presumed able to vote even if under conservatorship. A court can disqualify you only with clear and convincing evidence that you cannot express a desire to vote, even with reasonable accommodations. Jury findings must be unanimous. This rule took effect January 1, 2024, and courts must notify the Secretary of State when they make such findings.

AI tools must reveal training data

Beginning January 1, 2026, developers who release generative AI to Californians must post details about the datasets used for training. The post must say sources and owners, data types and size, copyright or public‑domain status, whether consumer data is included, cleaning steps, dates of use, and if synthetic data was used. The rule applies to systems released on or after January 1, 2022. Security, aircraft, and federal national‑security systems are exempt.

Proof for 'green' product claims

If a seller claims a product is recyclable, compostable, biodegradable, or otherwise “green,” they must keep written proof. They must include reasons, any known harms and fixes, permit issues, and follow federal guidance. They must share this information with the public on request. Retailers and wholesalers who did not create the claim are not treated as the maker under this rule.

Stronger data privacy and disclosures

Businesses must give you at least two ways to request your data, including a toll‑free number. If they have a website, they must offer a web method and update their online privacy notice every 12 months to show what data they collect, why, who gets it, and whether it was sold or shared. The law defines “sell” broadly to cover many kinds of sharing for value and sets rules for probabilistic IDs and pseudonymization. It treats many items as sensitive, including Social Security numbers, health, biometrics, and “neural data,” and says precise location means within a 1,850‑foot radius. Research use must match the original purpose and use deidentified or aggregated data with safeguards.

Stronger privacy contracts with vendors

If a company is only a service provider, it does not have to reply directly to your request. It must help the business respond and fix errors. Service providers must have written contracts that ban selling or sharing and limit data use. Contracts can allow audits or tests at least once a year. The law also clarifies who counts as a covered business and what counts as personal and sensitive data.

Stronger privacy for toll accounts

Transportation agencies cannot sell or give your toll or transit account personal data, except in limited cases like a search warrant. They must post a clear privacy policy, give a copy to subscribers, and let you review or change your data. They must delete personal data no later than four years and six months after your billing cycle ends and your account closes. You can sue for $2,500 per violation, or $4,000 per violation if there are three or more.

Local districts can finance more projects

Infrastructure financing districts can now fund more public projects. These include transit, water and sewage, flood control, childcare, libraries, parks, brownfield cleanup, military base reuse, affordable housing, climate adaptation, ports, broadband, nonprofit community services, and wildfire equipment in high‑risk areas. They may fund maintenance in general, but not with Article 4 bond proceeds.

Oil Trust Fund for Long Beach cleanup

Starting January 31, 2025, on the last day of each month, the Controller transfers the larger of $5,000,000 or 50% of remaining oil revenue into a new Oil Trust Fund. The fund pays for well abandonment, pipeline and facility removal, and cleanup on the Long Beach tidelands. Spending requires a City of Long Beach resolution that oil revenue is not enough and commission approval and scheduling.

Plans to improve LOSSAN rail service

If funded, the Secretary of Transportation must deliver a LOSSAN rail corridor report within two years of appropriation, using a January 1, 2025 baseline. The report must list priority projects, funding, service outcomes, and coastal resiliency strategies. A stakeholder working group must send consensus recommendations by February 1, 2026 on reliability, management options, needed law or funding changes, and federal program coordination. The reporting requirement ends February 1, 2030.

State funds for county corrections programs

The state allocates $122.8 million for 2022–23 and $116.1 million for 2024–25 to counties. Each county gets at least $200,000 in 2024–25. Payments arrive in four equal quarterly payments. Counties that fail required reporting do not get money. This section ends January 1, 2026.

Stronger standards and data for behavioral health

The state sets new rules for county‑designated involuntary treatment facilities, including substance use services, medication access, stays, discharge, and privacy. Counties must use one statewide client data system with uniform definitions and strong privacy protections. The department creates tools and rates to assess and support children’s mental health programs, with rates starting when funded. A new limit on reusing reported client data takes effect July 1, 2026 if voters approved the 2024 behavioral health changes.

Cities can’t block density bonuses

Cities and counties cannot apply rules that physically prevent building a qualifying affordable project at the allowed density. Developers can ask to waive or reduce standards, unless this would cause specific, unfixable harms or break historic protections. Local governments also cannot demand extra studies beyond what state law requires to process a density bonus application.

Cities must plan for floods and recharge

General plans must identify flood‑prone areas and review them every year using FEMA or state maps. When the housing element is next updated, the conservation section must list rivers, creeks, flood corridors, and land that can hold floodwater for groundwater recharge and stormwater work.

Faster, clearer density bonus approvals

Cities must publish procedures, timelines, and document lists for density bonus applications. Once an application is complete, the city must state the bonus amount, parking ratio, and if enough info was given for incentives or waivers. Bonuses are a percentage above the normal max units, and fractions round up to a whole unit. Cities must grant requested concessions unless narrow safety, cost, historic, or legal limits apply, and courts must award fees if a denial breaks the law. Cities must adopt a local ordinance to implement these rules and still must comply even without one.

Grants to help cities plan housing

The state provides $125 million to help local governments plan for housing. Awards are capped by population tier. Large cities may get up to $1.5 million; small places may get as little as $65,000. Money can fund rezoning, environmental review, infrastructure planning, ADU rules, and staff or consultants. The housing department reviews applications and gives one-time awards.

Plan streets for all users

When a city or county makes a major update to its circulation plan, it must plan a balanced, multimodal network for all users. The plan must fit the local rural, suburban, or urban setting.

Prioritize state land for farmworkers

By December 31, 2028, the state must identify excess sites near migrant labor centers and prioritize them for permanent farmworker housing. Agencies must focus first on areas with the greatest need based on a prior report.

Safer streets plans with deadlines

For any substantive update on or after January 1, 2025, a city or county must use the Safe System approach in its circulation element and add bike, pedestrian, and traffic‑calming plans in urban areas. Plans must flag safety corridors, focus on vulnerable users, and set goals to start and finish actions within 25 years. The city or county must begin work within two years, review progress, and consider revising the plan if it will miss the 25‑year goals.

Stronger local safety and climate plans

Cities and counties must keep safety and conservation plans up to date. They must map flood, fire, climate, and wildlife corridors, and set goals and actions to reduce risks. Plans must identify areas with only one evacuation route and plan fixes. Reviews happen at least every eight years, with input from state experts. Jurisdictions with disadvantaged communities must add environmental justice goals. They can fold in existing qualifying plans or add a separate wildlife element.

Tougher enforcement of housing plans

The housing department reviews local actions that break housing plans and gives cities 30 days to respond. It can alert the Attorney General and undo prior approvals until the city complies. Courts can fine noncompliant cities $10,000 to $100,000 per month after 12 months, tripling after three months and multiplying by six after six months, and the Controller can intercept funds. Before some suits, the department offers two meetings. If the Attorney General declines a case, the department may hire its own lawyers. A set statute of limitations now applies to these actions.

COVID staffing: 2021–22 school funding rule

From September 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022, schools did not get average daily attendance credit for students quarantined for COVID‑19. Despite that, a district, county office, or charter school could get ADA credit for closures or big attendance losses caused by COVID staffing shortages. To qualify, leaders had to file affidavits showing quarantined staff, that all staffing options were exhausted, and that they consulted with the county office and the State Superintendent.

CSU rules on protests and harassment

CSU must ban violent, harassing, intimidating, or discriminatory acts that create a hostile environment. CSU must set fair, content‑neutral time, place, and manner rules for protests and publish them online. Campuses must adopt incident response steps and give students mandatory training on hostile conduct, protest rules, and civility.

Heat and weather safety rules for schools

By January 1, 2026, the state posts temperature or index thresholds that change student physical activity. By July 1, 2026, each local school agency adopts local weather plans, staff training, and indoor options. The state offers help starting January 1, 2026. Implementation depends on funding.

One‑semester personal finance course required

The state must adopt a guide for a stand‑alone, one‑semester personal finance course by May 31, 2026. If it is not adopted by then, local districts must create their own approved course so students can take it in 2027–28. The law provides a one‑time $300,000 to support curriculum work.

Planning for data, AI, and funding

A 21‑member board now governs the statewide education data system. The Superintendent convenes an AI in education group to publish guidance by January 1, 2026 and a model policy by July 1, 2026, with a report by January 1, 2027. The Legislative Analyst must report by January 1, 2026 on using enrollment instead of attendance for school funding counts. For 2024–25, up to $729,000 from the Teacher Credentials Fund supports a commission workgroup if the Department of Finance approves.

Safer school rooms: interior locks

When schools add or remodel buildings, they must install interior locks on doors of rooms for five or more people. Locks must meet Title 24 rules. Repairs under $20,000 and some projects submitted before January 1, 2025 are exempt. This rule applies only if funding is provided.

Grants for recycling and compost projects

When funded by the Legislature, the department runs grants for in‑state recycling and organic waste projects. Eligible work includes composting, digestion, reuse, edible food recovery, preprocessing, and equipment for public facilities. Awards weigh greenhouse‑gas cuts, diversion, benefits to disadvantaged or low‑income communities, readiness, and air and water quality. Larger regional projects can receive bigger awards if funds allow.

Grants for carpet recycling apprenticeships

Starting July 1, 2025, 8% of producer assessments fund grants to joint apprenticeship programs that train carpet installers in recycling techniques. The money is split evenly between northern and southern California. Unused grant funds roll over and reduce the next year’s allocation. Programs must apply and report spending to receive grants.

Easier remote and electronic business notices

Members may join and vote in corporate member meetings by video, phone, or other remote means when boards authorize and safeguards are in place. The law treats electronic transmissions as “writing” for company communications with owners and managers. When registered mail is required, certified mail now counts. Remote‑only meetings need all‑member consent, a board emergency finding, or a live audiovisual feed.

600‑hour training for hairstyling students

Hairstyling courses must be at least 600 hours. Schools must teach 100 hours of health and safety, 100 hours of disinfection and sanitation, and 200 hours of hairstyling services. Training must cover all hair types and textures.

Continuing education rules for social workers

Licensed social workers must complete 36 hours of approved training every two years to renew. Registrants must complete 3 hours of California law and ethics each year. Keep records for two years. The board can audit and may allow exceptions for good cause.

Young child credit phases out above $25,000

Beginning January 1, 2022, the Young Child Tax Credit falls by $20 for each $100 (or part) of earned income over $25,000. The Franchise Tax Board recomputes the $20 amount and the $25,000 limit each year. Starting with 2024 returns, a graduated phaseout applies so the credit goes to zero at higher incomes. This credit applies to families with a qualifying child under age six.

Monthly labor reports and penalties on projects

For projects with 50 or more units, developers must file monthly public reports on apprentices and health spending. Missing a report costs 10% of that month’s construction value, up to $10,000. Contractors who break apprenticeship or health rules owe $200 per day per worker. All contractors must register, keep payrolls, and submit payroll records to the Labor Commissioner at least monthly with fringe benefit details.

Preschool rate COLA paused two years

For the 2023–24 and 2024–25 budget years, the automatic cost‑of‑living increase for standard preschool reimbursement rates is set to zero. Any changes for these years depend on ratified labor agreements and future funding by the Legislature.

Higher fines for illegal cannabis ads

Public prosecutors can sue over unlawful cannabis advertising. Courts may order injunctions and award attorney fees and costs. Licensed businesses can be fined up to $5,000 per violation. Unlicensed businesses can be fined up to $30,000 per violation. Courts consider listed factors and limit duplicative actions; remedies are cumulative.

OSHA training for cannabis businesses

Cannabis license applicants and renewals must have one supervisor and one employee complete a 30‑hour OSHA general industry course. You may hire them within one year of getting or renewing the license. If your business has only one employee, you are exempt.

Tougher cannabis licensing and labor rules

Cannabis owners must submit fingerprints for state and FBI checks, and pay processing fees. Applicants with 20+ employees, and with 10+ employees for applications on or after July 1, 2024, must promise to enter and follow a labor peace agreement; violations can be investigated, with remedial periods up to 180 days. Applications now require proof of site control, seller’s permit info, fees, a destruction‑cost bond, detailed operating plans, a full premises diagram, and a list of financial interest holders. Cultivators must state if they are an agricultural employer.

New local gross-receipts and head taxes

Local authorities may adopt special taxes on businesses measured by gross receipts or by number of employees. Rates and exemptions can vary by sector, and taxes can be enforced by suit. Tax‑exempt nonprofits and certain religious clergy are not subject to these taxes.

Stiffer penalties for misclassifying workers

Willful misclassification carries fines of $5,000 to $15,000 per violation. A pattern or practice raises fines to $10,000 to $25,000 per violation. Employers must post a signed notice for one year admitting the finding and listing agency contacts. If a licensed contractor is found in violation, the state sends the order to the Contractors State License Board, which must start discipline within 30 days.

Carpet recycling: plans, labels, penalties

Carpet producers must run a plan that accepts used carpet, funds recycling, has a 5‑year budget, and keeps a six‑month operating reserve. Plans must set up free, convenient drop‑off sites, including at least one in each county unless adjusted, and target at least 20% reuse of conventional carpet by 2028. From January 1, 2027, covered synthetic carpet must carry a standard back‑mark for sorting, and by 2028 must include 5% postconsumer recycled carpet. Violations can draw penalties up to $10,000 a day, or $25,000 a day for intentional violations.

Higher idle-well fees or closure plans

Each year by May 1, operators must either pay an annual fee per idle well or file an approved multi‑year plan to eliminate idle wells. Current fees are $1,000 (under 3 years idle), $2,500 (3–<8), $5,000 (8–<15), $12,500 (15–<20), and $22,500 (20+). Starting January 1, 2029, 25‑plus‑year wells pay $60,000 and 20–<25 years pay $22,500. Plans must meet required annual elimination percentages, which vary by operator size and year, or face penalties.

Mobilehome rule‑violation notice and cure

Park management must give you written notice of a claimed rule violation and allow seven days to fix it. After three written notices for the same rule in 12 months, management may act on the next violation without another written notice.

Crackdown on worker misclassification

It is illegal to willfully misclassify someone as an independent contractor or deduct fees from their pay because of that misclassification. The Labor Commissioner can investigate, issue citations, seek temporary relief, and sue; public prosecutors can also act. Workers may recover statutory damages instead of civil penalties under another section. Courts can reduce or increase penalties and issue injunctions based on the facts.

CSU conduct acknowledgment and free speech rules

CSU students must acknowledge their campus student code of conduct as a condition of enrollment. At the same time, CSU trustees and campuses must ensure campus policies follow the U.S. First Amendment, California free speech protections, and federal Title VI. This pairs a student responsibility with firm protections for speech and civil rights.

Local college can cover full costs

West Valley‑Mission Community College District may use local funds to help residents pay their total cost of attendance. This can cover tuition, fees, books, living costs, and transportation. The authority becomes inoperative July 1, 2030 and is repealed January 1, 2031.

New rules for worker PAGA claims

Starting October 1, 2024, a PAGA notice filing includes a $75 fee, with waivers available. The agency must say within 60 days if it will not investigate, or you can sue after 65 days; if it investigates, it has up to 120 days. You may add a PAGA claim to an existing case within 60 days after these timelines. Employers cannot use the notice‑and‑cure process more than once in 12 months for the same violation. For Cal/OSHA claims, you must first notify Cal/OSHA; if it cites the employer and the employer fixes the problem, a PAGA suit cannot start.

PAGA penalties, cure caps, and make‑whole pay

Default penalties are $100 per aggrieved employee per pay period. They can be $25 for certain easy‑to‑determine wage statement issues, $50 for isolated events, or $200 if there was a prior finding within five years or conduct was malicious, fraudulent, or oppressive. A business with no employees pays $500. Penalties may be capped at 15% if the employer fixed issues before notice, or 30% if fixed within 60 days. To “cure,” employers must fix the problem and make workers whole, including three years of unpaid wages plus 7% interest, any liquidated damages, and reasonable attorney fees and costs. Of penalties recovered, 65% goes to the state agency and 35% to employees.

Pay and limits for state service members

California state forces generally do not have to serve outside the state. Exceptions are a Governor’s detail on another state’s request, fresh pursuit, or service under the National Defense Act. Officers and warrant officers on active state duty get the same pay and allowances as U.S. Army officers of the same grade. Special duty ordered by the Governor gets the same pay and travel. Some enlisted family allowances are not paid. Administrative staff may receive up to $20 each month.

Service protections and Guard age limit

Public employees returning from military leave get the same rights and status as if they never left, but no pay or leave for the time away. If the old job is gone, they must get a comparable job. Enlisted Guard members must retire or be discharged at age 64. If you were involuntarily ordered to active duty and choose to finish it, you keep your rights and benefits. Cadet Corps leaders injured or killed on ordered duty get state worker compensation like state employees, using prior‑year average income with a $10,000 minimum.

Students can sue for hazing harms

Beginning January 1, 2026, current, former, or prospective students injured by hazing can sue the participants, the organization, and, in some cases, the school. A school can be liable only if it was involved or knew and failed to take reasonable steps, the group was affiliated with the school, and the incident happened on or after January 1, 2026. If a school has strong anti‑hazing rules and a prevention program, the law presumes it took reasonable steps. That presumption can be challenged but makes suits against the school harder.

Reusable bag rules and fees through 2025

Reusable grocery bags sold at checkout must come from certified producers and meet standards, like handles, 15‑liter capacity, 125 uses, washable or cleanable, and no toxic metals. Labels must name the maker and country, and give recycling info if applicable. Producers must pay a certification fee that funds state oversight. These bag rules and the fee authority end January 1, 2026.

Add up to 10% more mobilehome lots

A park owner with a valid, unsuspended operating permit may add new lots up to 10% of the park’s approved lot count. Before adding lots, the owner must get required permits and show added lots will not harm services; local health, utility, and fire compliance may be required. Owners cannot shrink or interfere with in‑use community amenities or occupied spaces unless they follow the lot‑line change law. Each added lot is treated as “new construction,” which can make it exempt from local rent caps under state law.

Adding mobilehome lots: fee rules and coastal limit

When you add lots to a mobilehome park, local governments cannot add new business, registration, or use‑permit fees beyond what existing lots already pay. Usual property taxes and service fees still apply. These lot‑addition rules do not apply in parts of the coastal zone covered by Public Resources Code 30603(a)(1) or (2).

Faster housing approvals with guardrails

Local governments cannot add extra fees or inclusionary rules just because a project qualifies for streamlined approval. Review of a modification is limited to whether the change affects objective standards, and Title 24 building rules can apply to pre‑permit modification requests, even ones filed before January 1, 2022. A project is not eligible if it would affect listed tribal cultural resources without agreement, or if it sits on an existing mobilehome or RV park site. Affordable units counted here can also satisfy other state or local affordability rules.

Labor and benefit rules on housing projects

Workers on private housing projects must be paid prevailing wages. Projects with 50 or more units must use or request state‑approved apprentices and make health care spending at least the hourly cost of a local Covered California Platinum plan for two adults and two kids. Projects taller than 85 feet must use a skilled, trained workforce and follow bidding and monthly reporting rules, with exceptions if few compliant bids exist, a multicraft labor agreement covers the work, or all units serve lower‑income households. Small private projects of 10 units or fewer that are not public works are exempt from these wage, apprenticeship, and health spending rules.

Tribal review rules for fast‑track housing

Before you apply for streamlined approval, you must file a notice of intent using the 1/1/2020 preliminary application form. The city must consult with any culturally affiliated California Native American tribe. You are eligible for fast‑track only if no potential tribal cultural resource is found, or if an enforceable agreement with the tribe and city is in place. A city may accept your streamlined application only if a tribe did not accept consultation, failed to engage after repeated attempts, found no potential impact, or signed an enforceable agreement. If you are found ineligible for tribal reasons, the city must give written reasons and how to seek a conditional use permit or other discretionary approval.

In-state workers for benefit call centers

State agencies that contract call centers serving CalWORKs, CalFresh, Medi‑Cal, Healthy Families, or the state health system must use bidders who certify all work, including subcontracts, will be done by workers employed in California. A knowingly false certification can bring up to $10,000 in penalties, contract termination, and repayment tied to the share of out‑of‑state work. The state can waive this only for documented failed solicitations or emergencies and must report exceptions. The rule does not apply if it would violate certain trade agreements, to some prior solicitations, or to specified insurer contracts.

New early‑cure paths in PAGA cases

Small employers (fewer than 100 employees in the notice period) can seek a confidential cure plan. The agency reviews the cure and can block a lawsuit if it is complete. Employers sued under PAGA can ask the court for an early evaluation and a stay, with a neutral conference within 70 days. Wage‑statement‑only claims have a 33‑day expedited cure process with quick agency review. These rules take effect October 1, 2024.

Cannabis event sales with strict safeguards

The state issues temporary event licenses so licensed sellers can make onsite sales and allow onsite use by adults 21+ at locally approved venues like county fairs. Event applicants must give the state a list of participating sellers 60 days before the event. Unsold inventory may be returned to the store if tracked and kept in original packaging. The department can fine up to three times the license fee per violation and can stop events or expel unlicensed sellers immediately, without a hearing.

New rules for onsite cannabis events

Local governments may allow onsite cannabis use at licensed retailers or microbusinesses for adults 21+, with visibility, food handling, and employee‑safety rules. The state will not deny a cannabis temporary event license just because the venue has an alcohol license, but alcohol sales and drinking at the venue stop for the event day and resume at 6 a.m. the next day. Only a licensed distributor or licensed microbusiness may move event inventory to and from the site. A city can take over enforcement for licensed facilities inside city limits if the state delegates that authority.

Tighter rules for state vendor certification

Firms seeking small business, microbusiness, DVBE, or MBE certification must sign under penalty of perjury that filings are true. On just cause, the state can require IRS Form 4506‑T to obtain tax transcripts. Fraud in MBE certification can bring fines up to $5,000 and repeat‑offender bans from state contracting. The state may display voluntary ownership demographics on firm profiles. Definitions for minority and other enterprise categories and goals are clarified.

Cities keep control over cannabis

Local governments can keep regulating or banning cannabis businesses, including zoning, local licenses, and enforcement. If a local license is revoked, the city or county must tell the state. Within 60 days, the state starts a process to decide if the state license should be suspended or revoked.

Stronger vote‑by‑mail cure and rules

Counties must translate unsigned‑envelope notices into all languages required by the Voting Rights Act. They must post one online form that combines the signature‑fix and unsigned‑envelope statements, and they may mail that combined form. Officials cannot remove ballots from envelopes before the set time, and once opened, a ballot cannot be rejected for that reason. Voters may submit cures electronically if privacy safeguards are in place. Return cures as soon as possible, and no later than 5 p.m. two days before certification. If next‑day notice is not possible, officials must send it as soon as they can, but at least eight days before certification. Counties must follow the Secretary of State’s signature rules. The Secretary of State sends monthly progress updates starting January 1, 2025 until implementation is complete.

Clear food date labels by 2026

Starting July 1, 2026, food made on or after that date must use set date terms. Use “BEST if Used by” (or “BEST if Used or Frozen by”) for quality, and “USE by” (or “USE by or Freeze by”) for safety. Small items and drinks may use “BB” or “UB.” Noncompliant labels and “sell by” (except limited coded forms) are not allowed in California.

Faster privacy responses and clearer data rights

Businesses must answer your verifiable request to see, fix, or delete data in 45 days. They can extend once for up to 45 more days if they tell you within the first 45 days. Disclosures cover the prior 12 months, and may go back further for data collected on or after January 1, 2022 when a regulation allows it. You can get these disclosures at most twice in any 12‑month period.

More time for hospital seismic upgrades, with penalties

Eligible small, rural, district, critical access, or distressed hospitals may get up to a three‑year delay of the seismic deadline, with a plan due and milestones to finish by January 1, 2033. The department may grant up to two more years, extending to January 1, 2035, if the hospital stays in financial distress or faces delays beyond its control. If a hospital misses milestones, it faces $5,000 per calendar day in fines and may be denied permits for non‑seismic projects until back on track. The department must adopt emergency rules and help eligible hospitals explore relief options.

Vaccine record sharing with easy opt-out

Providers must share specified immunization and TB data with public health immunization systems unless a patient or parent refuses. Adults must voluntarily provide item (13) data, and it cannot be shared for minors. You can refuse sharing and reminders at any time, by mail or during a hospital stay. These rules sunset January 1, 2026.

Affordable set‑asides and monitoring fees

When a city is found noncompliant, projects using streamlined approval must set aside minimum affordable units. Typical floors are 10% at 50% AMI for rentals and 10% at 80% AMI for for‑sale. The Bay Area option can require 20% at 100% AMI with a portfolio average at or below 80% AMI. In severe shortfall cases, the share can rise to 50% at 80% AMI or follow older large‑project thresholds, and local laws with higher shares still control. Cities may charge a local monitoring fee if you use certain local incentives or funding, add moderate‑income units via local programs, or accept funding that requires local monitoring.

Cities must weigh military readiness

When zoning land next to bases or under military flight paths, cities and counties must consider how growth affects military readiness. They must consider information that military facilities provide. This can shape what gets built near bases.

Mobilehome lots easier, rent caps stay

New lots added to a mobilehome park count as allowed under the park’s existing zoning. Cities cannot require new conditional use permits or variances for those added lots. These rules apply statewide, including charter cities. If a lot is converted to a multifamily manufactured home under this law, it is not treated as new construction for rent-control exemptions, so local rent caps still apply.

Regional housing and infrastructure authority powers

Regional authorities can place one revenue measure per election and set up financing districts and housing authorities. They can apply for grants and loans, invest funds, buy and manage 5+ unit buildings with long‑term affordability rules, land bank parcels, accept surplus public land, and issue bonds or mortgage revenue bonds. They may contract, sue, hire, and even form a California LLC to carry out projects.

Faster pesticide registrations from 2027, with pauses

From July 1, 2027, the Department must meet set decision deadlines: 30 months for a new active ingredient, 6 months for items needing no data review, and 12 months when data review is required. Timelines can pause if an applicant misses a 15‑business‑day fix, if EPA approval is needed, if changes are substantive, if fees are unpaid, or if data from another review is used. The director may also extend a timeline twice by 60 days with written notice and reasons.

Textile recycling rules and small‑seller break

New textile stewardship rules define covered products and who is a producer. Sellers with under $1,000,000 in annual global turnover (indexed to CPI) are excluded. Violations can bring penalties up to $10,000 a day, or $50,000 a day for intentional violations, with funds used for program and enforcement.

Tougher rules for reusable plastic bags

Plastic reusable grocery bags must have at least 20% recycled content since January 1, 2016 and at least 40% since January 1, 2020. Bags must be recyclable in California, show the recycled content, be at least 2.25 mils thick, and carry 22 pounds for 175 feet for 125 uses. Compostable bags certified under ASTM D6400 follow special labeling rules. This section is in effect until January 1, 2026.

Local authorities may issue revenue bonds

An authority may sell revenue bonds paid from its own revenues, such as special taxes, fees, loan repayments, investment income, and property income. The governing resolution must set the purpose, maximum amount, term, and interest. Ballot summaries must tell voters that special tax money may repay the bonds. Revenues are used in order: operations, bond payments, obligations, administration, then other authorized uses.

Tougher rules and cleanup fund for idle wells

If an operator does not file the required annual idle‑well fee, the law treats the well as deserted. The state can order the well plugged and abandoned. All idle‑well fees go into a new Hazardous and Idle‑Deserted Well Abatement Fund. The fund is always available to pay for plugging, abandonment, and taking down production equipment at covered wells.

Property tax incentives for big factories

Cities and counties can pay a capital investment incentive to qualified manufacturing facilities for up to 15 years. Payments come from property tax on assessed value above $150,000,000 for the project. The proponent must pay a community services fee equal to 25% of the incentive, capped at $2,000,000 per year. Projects require state certification.

Food date labels and donations

Beginning July 1, 2026, the law allows selling or donating food after a quality date. Retail food facilities may donate food even if it lacks this section’s labels. A “packed on” label on prepared foods is allowed only if a quality or safety date also appears. Infant formula, eggs, and beer are not covered. The state may accept private funds in a Consumer Education Account to teach what date labels mean.

Veterans event ads must disclose limits

Any event about veterans’ benefits must state, in writing and aloud at the start, that the promoter cannot file initial Aid and Attendance applications or represent veterans before the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. If the event is not sponsored by VA or the state veterans agency, it must name the sponsor. The disclosure must match the size and font used for the word “veteran” in ads.

Clear Medi-Cal youth benefits materials

The state makes easy‑to‑read materials on EPSDT benefits for Medi‑Cal children and youth. Managed care plans must give them soon after enrollment and each year. Fee‑for‑service members get them within 60 days of eligibility and annually. Youth ages 12 to under 21 get youth‑focused content.

Clearer HOA election and voting rules

HOAs must give members general notice at least 30 days before nomination deadlines and before ballots are sent, with return details, meeting info, and candidate names. Ballots and two envelopes must be mailed at least 30 days before the voting deadline for paper voters, preserving secrecy. If no quorum, a reconvened meeting can elect directors with a 20% quorum (or lower if bylaws allow), and returned ballots count toward quorum. HOAs must send the full text of proposed amendments with ballots and may allow secure remote participation and voting with safeguards.

Easier ADU rules for homeowners

Building an ADU does not automatically change your building’s occupancy type unless a written safety finding says so. If your house does not need sprinklers, your ADU does not either, and adding an ADU does not trigger sprinklers in your house. You also do not have to post a notice when demolishing a detached garage for an ADU, unless you are in a protected historic district.

HOA election rules and options updated

If your HOA’s rules allow cumulative voting, the HOA must permit it using secret ballots. HOAs may run elections entirely by mail, by electronic secret ballot, or a mix of both. The required open meeting to count votes still takes place.

Mortgage credit certificates for homebuyers

Local agencies can issue mortgage credit certificates (MCCs) that give qualifying homebuyers a federal tax credit based on mortgage interest. Agencies must follow federal rules. The law does not change credit amounts or who qualifies under federal law.

Rental application fees capped at $30

Landlords can charge at most $30 per applicant, adjusted each year for inflation. They must itemize costs, return any unused amount, and not charge when no unit is available soon. Applicants must get a copy of any credit report within seven days of the landlord receiving it.

Shelter stays don’t create tenancy

Staying in a shelter, motel, or hotel program does not create a tenancy if the program follows the law. Programs must use Housing First practices, give written rules, allow reasonable accommodations, and offer exit planning and a grievance process. Most terminations need 30 days’ notice unless there is a direct threat or a voluntary exit. If a site later becomes permanent housing with a certificate of occupancy, some of these procedures change at that time.

What is not a mobilehome park

Some places no longer count as mobilehome parks. These include permitted employee housing, certain manufactured homes approved as building‑code equivalent, and ADUs made from manufactured homes. These sites do not have to follow mobilehome park permit rules.

Elected officers can return after service

An elected state officer called to active military duty has the right to return to their office when service ends, if the elected term has not expired.

Independent probe and notice for public workers

The State Auditor provides a separate way to send complaints about Auditor’s Office employees to an independent investigator by mail or online. A DOJ unit receives reports and may send them to the investigator; the Auditor’s Office pays the investigator’s costs. An independent investigator must be a California lawyer or certified fraud examiner with relevant experience and be outside government control. Before any closed meeting on employee discipline, the employee must get written notice of the right to a public hearing at least 24 hours in advance; actions taken without notice are void.

New rules, pay, gear for Cadet Corps

The Adjutant General sets Cadet Corps organization, grades, and ranks, and appoints commandants at schools. Cadet personnel must wear prescribed uniforms; the Commander may approve alternatives. The Adjutant General can issue uniforms and equipment to schools or sponsors without charge, with receipts. Cadet Corps officers on state active duty get base pay equal to a U.S. Army member of the same grade (without longevity) plus expenses, and other state military can be assigned short‑term to support the Corps and be paid. Qualified state military members can be detailed as instructors, and Corps funds may cover their pay and conferences.

School staff keep sick leave when moving

If you are a classified K–12 or community college employee with at least one year of service and you leave for reasons not initiated by your employer for cause, your earned sick leave transfers to your next public education employer. Your former employer must provide your ID and leave‑balance details to help the transfer. A receiving board may also accept leave for someone terminated for cause, but only if it agrees.

University-only license for veterinarians

Veterinarians employed by the University of California or Western University of Health Sciences can get a university license to practice only at those schools and their affiliates. The license ends when the qualifying job ends. Applicants must pass a statutes and regulations exam, apply, and pay the fee.

Workers can enforce prevailing wage pay

The Labor Commissioner, workers, and joint labor‑management committees can enforce prevailing wage rules. The state can issue civil wage and penalty assessments within 18 months after project completion. Contractors and sureties may owe liquidated damages.

Retired license option for CPAs

Certified public accountants and public accountants may apply to place a license in retired status if they meet board rules. Retired status stops active practice and may remove some routine renewal duties. The board sets rules to restore active status and may require fees or education. Applicants with a valid email address must provide it.

Small home repairs don’t need a license

A contractor license is not required for a single project under $1,000 that needs no building permit. The job cannot be part of a larger project, and the person cannot advertise as a contractor or hire others to do the work.

Easier special meetings in worker co-ops

In a worker cooperative with more than four worker‑members, the greater of three members or 5% can call a special meeting. In a cooperative with four or fewer worker‑members, one member can call a meeting.

Limited alcohol service without licenses

Some small businesses can serve limited alcohol without a license if they do not charge extra. Limousines and hot‑air‑ride operators may offer free drinks. Barber and cosmetology shops in good standing may serve up to 12 oz of beer or 6 oz of wine during business hours and no later than 10 p.m., with no extra charge. Approved bartending apprentices 21+ may taste drinks for training, not consume them. Local governments may add limits.

Broader legal shields for emergency reviewers

Registered emergency volunteers and people pressed into service during an emergency get the same legal protections as state employees doing the same work. Members of the Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Council have those protections while reviewing predictions. Presenters to the council are covered until the council rules on scientific validity.

Campaign funds for verified security costs

Candidates and elected officers can use campaign funds for verified security expenses up to a lifetime cap of $10,000. Payments to close relatives and for firearms are not allowed. Tangible items must be returned to the committee or repaid at fair market value when the threat ends or within one year of leaving office, unless a verified threat continues. These costs must be reported and verified.

Easier anonymous tips to State Auditor

You can report suspected improper government activity by mail or through an online portal. You do not have to give your name or contact information. The State Auditor keeps tipsters confidential, except when law enforcement needs information for a criminal probe.

Easier permits for habitat projects

Fish and Wildlife can issue restoration permits for qualifying projects. These permits can allow handling of listed or rare species and some impacts if protective steps are in place. If a covered federal conservation agreement is approved, people authorized by it do not need extra state permission for covered take while it lasts.

Large districts can manage their funds

A district with over $500,000 in yearly revenue can withdraw its funds from county control. The board must pass a resolution, appoint a treasurer with a bond, adopt accounting and warrant rules, and name a depositary. The county and district set a withdrawal date within 15 months. The district treasurer must file regular written financial reports and follow state investment and deposit rules.

More flexible wildlife conservation funding

Money already in the Wildlife Restoration Fund can be spent under this chapter. Federal funds for board‑approved projects must go into the Wildlife Restoration or Fish and Game Preservation funds. Lease income in these funds may be used for land work only after the Legislature appropriates it. A San Francisco Baylands Restoration Program Account funds buying and restoring Bay wetlands.

State backs arena ads in highway talks

The state makes arena advertising displays a priority when it renegotiates with the Federal Highway Administration. This sets the state’s negotiating stance. It does not change private contracts or create new public fees.

State tracks labor trafficking cases

The Labor Trafficking Unit builds a system to collect and analyze labor trafficking reports. It uses the data to pick cases for DOJ investigation or to refer to other law enforcement. Beginning April 1, 2027, and every April 1 after, the unit files a yearly report with counts, referrals, demographics, and challenges. This reporting ends January 1, 2036.

Stronger forfeiture tools in child trafficking cases

Prosecutors can ask courts to freeze or place a receiver over assets tied to human trafficking. Courts must give notice, hold a hearing, and find need and probable cause, and can require a bond. If the case involves commercial sex with a victim under 18, the court must forfeit property to the state or local government, while protecting good‑faith purchasers and handling lienholders by statute.

Stronger local oversight and public input

Authority boards must include at least three elected officials, choose leaders yearly, and may pay up to $100 per meeting (no more than two per month). They must follow open‑meeting and public‑records laws and hold public meetings on plans. County grand juries must investigate civil county matters, including agency needs and how offices operate.

Utilities must sign mosquito-control deals

An electric utility must sign a vector‑management agreement within 180 days if a local vector or health agency asks after voluntary talks fail. The agreement lists vault locations, supervised access times that consider mosquito season, contacts, update timelines, and a minimum three‑year term. It must consider vault changes to keep mosquitoes out and keep utility data confidential. Existing agreements stay in effect.

Pesticide registration timelines and reports

From May 1, 2025 to May 2, 2028, the state posts each year’s average days to process pesticide registrations, by review stage. Starting May 1, 2029, the yearly report adds counts of applications that meet or miss time limits by category. Beginning July 1, 2027, the director and an applicant may agree in writing to further extend a statutory review timeline.

Stronger oversight of Bay Area drinking water

The State Water Resources Control Board oversees Bay Area regional water operators to ensure they meet state and federal safe drinking water standards. This protects safe drinking water for households served by the system.

Five-year review of housing measures

Five years after voters pass an initial local housing measure, the authority must review results. The review lists spending to date, affordable homes built and preserved by income level, and tenant protections provided.

More public review of housing plans

Local governments must share draft housing plans early. The first draft goes to the state 90 days before adoption and must be open for 30 days of public comment, plus 10 business days to consider comments. Later drafts must be posted online at least seven days before submission. The state must finish reviews in 90 days for the first draft and 60 days for later drafts and adopted plans. Draft site inventories must be posted 90 days before initial adoption, and seven days before later adoptions if the list changes.

Public meeting in disadvantaged areas

For projects in census tracts marked as moderate or low resource, or high segregation and poverty, the city must hold a public meeting within 45 days after a notice of intent. The developer must confirm they attended and reviewed comments before applying. If the city does not hold the meeting, the developer must hold one before submitting a streamlined application.

State help for tribal housing

The state provides technical help and outreach to tribes on housing grants and planning. It assigns reference numbers to waiver requests, posts requests and decisions online, and may fold common waivers into financing programs. Data collected under this section is confidential and not public.

Broader whistleblower protections in government

More people count as employees for whistleblower rules, including appointees and former employees. The law expands what is an improper government act and what counts as a protected disclosure, including reports to the State Auditor and complaints to the Commission on Judicial Performance.

Cities can enforce wage rules

Local governments and their labor agencies can sue or take administrative action against contractors who break these labor standards. If they win, workers get the recovered wages and penalties. Agencies may keep fees or extra penalties if authorized.

Designation for Black‑Serving colleges

Colleges can earn a California Black‑Serving Institutions designation if at least 10% of students are Black or 1,500 or more Black students are enrolled. Designations last five academic years and require a detailed application and a two‑thirds board vote.

Early childhood equity tool and workgroup

The Department of Social Services must convene a public workgroup to address racial and economic inequities for young children. Parents from underserved communities must be included. By January 1, 2025, the department finalizes and presents an equity Framework and Tool and publishes the tool, data, and methods on its website.

Faster transfer paths in STEM majors

By January 1, 2025, drafts of transfer model curricula for biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, environmental science, math, and physics must be submitted. If a single UC‑CSU pathway is not possible, campuses must post public evidence explaining why.

Purple Star schools for military families

The state recognizes schools that support military‑connected students with a Purple Star designation. The designation lasts three years and can be renewed. The state sets application rules and can remove the status if a school falls short.

Student seats on charter school boards

Starting July 1, 2023, if a qualifying petition gets at least 500 signatures or 10% of high school enrollment, a charter school’s board adds at least one student member. The student serves about one year, may join subcommittees, and gets a recorded preferential vote.

UC systemwide civil rights office

By July 1, 2026, UC must create a systemwide Office of Civil Rights led by a civil rights officer. The office keeps one nondiscrimination policy, runs grievance procedures (including for top leaders), oversees training, reviews each campus at least every five years, posts reviews publicly, and sets sanctions when needed.

Payments for carpet recycling collection sites

Producer responsibility plans must pay approved collection sites for taking and handling covered carpet. The site and the producer organization set the amount by agreement. Payments must appear in the plan’s budget.

Optional $1–$2 county car fee

Counties may add a $1 vehicle registration fee, or $2 if they follow an added approval process. You pay it at registration or renewal only in counties that adopt it. Money funds local programs to deter, investigate, and prosecute vehicle theft. Fee collection can be suspended if a county fails to report or misuses funds.

DOJ processing fee up to $14

The Department of Justice may charge up to $14 each time it prepares, files, or processes certain forms or transfers. The fee can rise with the California CPI. Some dealers are exempt. The fee covers DOJ costs.

San Diego e-bike rules for under-12s

Local authorities in San Diego County may ban kids under 12 from riding Class 1 or 2 e‑bikes. For the first 60 days after a ban starts, officers give warnings. After that, it is a $25 infraction, but a youth can avoid the fine by completing approved safety training within 120 days. Parents or guardians are jointly liable. The pilot ends January 1, 2029, and a report is due January 1, 2028.

Prescribers pay $15 a year for CURES

Beginning April 1, 2025, each pharmacist and each licensee allowed to handle Schedule II–IV drugs pays a $15 annual fee at license renewal. Retired or inactive licensees are exempt unless later authorized to handle these drugs. The money goes to the CURES Fund to run the state’s prescription monitoring system.

CPR needed for CTE credential

Starting July 1, 2025, applicants for the five‑year clear CTE teaching credential must hold CPR certification that meets American Heart Association or American Red Cross standards. You are exempt if you already showed this CPR certification under Section 44260(d).

More horse‑racing roles need licenses

People in many racing roles must hold a valid, unrevoked license and pay the fee set by the board. Licenses include a current photo. The board may require written or oral exams for some roles, such as outriders.

Some STEM transfers need more units

For certain high‑unit STEM Associate Degree for Transfer pathways, colleges may require up to 66 lower‑division units instead of 60. Colleges must justify the extra units and post the rationale publicly.

Title ‘athletic trainer’ restricted

You may not call yourself an “athletic trainer” unless you meet the education requirements and hold current Board of Certification credentials. People with certain disqualifying convictions or a disciplined out‑of‑state license cannot use the title. Existing collective bargaining protections continue until that agreement is renewed.

Tougher exam rules for court reporters

The licensing exam has three parts: English, Professional Practice, and Dictation/Transcription. You must pass all three within three consecutive years. The dictation part needs a 95% score. You may retake a part after four months if a new version exists. A CVR or CVR‑S certification counts for the dictation part, but you must still pass the other two parts.

Fertilizer sellers face small assessments, fees

Licensees selling fertilizing materials to unlicensed buyers must pay up to $0.002 per dollar of sales. Annual license fees vary by sales: under $20,000 pay $250; $20,000–$49,999 pay $350; $50,000–$1,999,999 pay $450; $2,000,000–$3,999,999 pay $550; $4,000,000+ pay $650. Agents pay $100 per license period.

Food facilities need permits; fees cover enforcement

Food facilities must have a valid, nontransferable local permit and post it where customers can see it. Local governments set permit and service fees to cover actual inspection and enforcement costs. Agencies may charge hourly cost recovery for certain activities.

New fertilizer research assessment up to 0.1%

The secretary may add an assessment up to $0.001 per dollar of sales. The money funds research, education, outreach, and university extension on fertilizing materials and nutrient management.

Volunteer injury lawsuits limited in emergencies

Public agencies and their officers are not liable if volunteers are injured while doing official emergency preparedness or relief work. This also covers people pressed into service during emergencies. This rule does not block benefits or insurance claims for injured people.

Faster court collection of agency penalties

After the review period ends, a department can ask small claims or superior court to enter judgment for unpaid penalties or restitution using a certified final order. The court clerk must enter the judgment immediately. The judgment is enforced like any civil judgment and given priority.

Paint fees and producer reporting

A per‑container stewardship fee is added to the price of paint sold in California. Retailers pass the fee to buyers. The fee must cover, but not exceed, program costs, and any surplus lowers future costs. Producer responsibility organizations must also post an annual report by July 1 that shows revenues, costs, collection sites, and recycling results.

Tighter ad rules for hemp products

Sellers of industrial hemp products cannot target ads to kids or to people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Ads cannot encourage under‑21 use, use kid‑appealing designs, or appear on interstate billboards. Ads are banned within 1,000 feet of schools, daycares, playgrounds, and youth centers. Broadcast, print, radio, and digital ads must run where at least 70% of the audience is 18 or older.

10-cent store bags; free for WIC/EBT

Through December 31, 2025, stores may sell reusable or recycled paper bags. They must charge at least 10 cents per bag. Starting January 1, 2026, stores may sell recycled paper bags for at least 10 cents. Shoppers using WIC or an EBT card get these bags at no cost.

Immunization data sharing rules through 2025

Local and state health departments may share immunization data with each other. They may share certain items with schools, childcare, WIC, foster care, human services, and health plans for specific uses. Providers cannot disclose a minor’s sexual orientation, gender identity, intersex traits, or sex assigned at birth. These rules end January 1, 2026.

New priority order for district choice

When a district of choice fills seats, first priority goes to siblings of current students. Second priority goes to students who get free or reduced‑price meals, foster youth, or homeless students. Third priority goes to children of military personnel.

Caps on dental hygiene board fees

The board can charge licensing and program fees but only up to set caps. Examples: up to $250 for an original license, up to $500 for a biennial renewal, delinquency up to half the renewal fee (not less than $5), $2,100 for curriculum review, and $750 for course approval. The law bans unlisted fees and sends all revenue to the State Dental Hygiene Fund.

Training required to sell annuities

Producers must finish an 8‑hour annuity course before selling and 4 hours of continuing education every two years. New life licensees on or after January 1, 2025 cannot sell annuities until training is done. Those licensed before that date must complete training by July 1, 2025. Insurers must verify completion.

Unemployment rules for film payroll firms

For unemployment insurance, a motion picture payroll company that pays and controls wages is treated as the employer if it files a statement within 15 days after first paying wages. Loan‑out companies count as employers only to remit employment taxes. If a payroll firm fails to file on time, the director can deny employer status and assign the maximum contribution rate plus 2%. The law sets notice and transfer rules for these companies.

2025 laws can override these sections

If the Legislature passes another act in 2025 that takes effect on or before January 1, 2026 and changes the same sections, that later act controls. This applies whether it is passed before or after this act.

Anti‑trafficking unit tied to funding

The Labor Trafficking Unit operates only if the Legislature provides enough money. If adequate funding is not appropriated by January 1, 2030, this section is repealed. The Department of Justice must file notice if funding is not provided by that date.

Hospital seismic finance filings kept confidential

Financial information hospitals submit to seek seismic‑compliance delays is confidential. The department does not release these records under the Public Records Act.

Labeled candidate deepfakes may stay up

If a candidate posts manipulated digital media with the required disclosure, platforms do not have to remove it. The law sets where and how long the disclosure must appear for video and audio. This allows some deceptive content to remain online if it is clearly labeled.

Military code rules by rank clarified

The law specifies which code sections apply to commissioned officers, warrant officers, and enlisted personnel. The Governor can still move members to a reserve list.

Rules for Baylands and tidelands projects

Baylands land buys must be at appraised fair market value, fit program goals, have funds for long‑term upkeep, and not create cleanup liability. If acquiring all or part of the Cargill property, a matching federal appropriation must be deposited. The State reserves mineral rights under granted tidelands and may extract if it does not unreasonably interfere with trust uses. Before spending on any single capital project over $250,000 on granted lands, the county must file details 90 days ahead; the State Lands Commission can disapprove. The county may not charge discriminatory rates or fees for uses on the granted lands.

New tribal consultation rules for housing

Local governments must notify affiliated tribes within 30 days. Tribes have 30 days to accept, and consultation must start within 30 days after that. Developers can join only with tribal approval and must follow confidentiality rules; CEQA does not apply to these scoping talks. Talks end with an enforceable agreement or a documented good‑faith impasse. The law defines respectful consultation and scoping and directs use of best practices.

Orange County gets Newport Bay tidelands

The State grants Orange County certain Newport Bay tidelands to hold in trust for public uses like harbors, beaches, marinas, recreation, and natural preservation. The county cannot sell the lands but may lease or grant franchises for up to 66 years. Every three fiscal years, net tideland revenues above $250,000 are split 85% to the State and 15% to the county, with carveouts for approved capital, debt, or reserves. People keep the right to fish and to access these waters, and the State can use on‑site transport facilities for free. The county must keep separate trust funds, file annual financial reports, and is subject to Attorney General enforcement for violations.

Show timberland as timber in plans

Parcels zoned for timberland productivity must be labeled for timber production in the general plan. This aligns land‑use maps with timber zoning.

Temporary pause for equestrian districts

From January 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025, certain equestrian‑district sites are excluded from this section’s streamlined rules. A site must be in an equestrian district designated for five or more years as of January 1, 2024, not zoned for housing then (but housing allowed by conditional use permit), and the city must have a compliant housing element.

Veterans housing program rules streamlined

Departments running veterans housing can set and change program guidelines without going through the usual Administrative Procedure Act steps. The departments and board cannot buy, operate, or manage properties under the program, except if they take over after a foreclosure.

Limits on Basic Needs Center funds

Budget Act funds for Basic Needs Centers cannot be used to combine the center with the financial aid office. Those funds also cannot pay for running or staffing student financial aid programs. Campuses must keep these functions separate when spending those specific dollars.

New rules for property and arena signs

Signs used only to sell or lease the property they stand on are exempt from display rules, and some on‑premise business signs within 1,000 feet can be exempt subject to highway visibility limits. San Joaquin County may display public health and safety messages on county property under the law. Arenas with 15,000+ seats can host limited, regulated advertising displays under a certified local ordinance, but ads cannot promote tobacco, firearms, or sexual content. If a federal notice requires removal and the order is ignored, owners face a $10,000 per day fine after 60 days.

Plant biostimulants clearly covered

The law adds plant biostimulants to the list of beneficial substances. This clarifies which farm and soil products are regulated under the statute.

Remote participation at member meetings

Members can join and vote remotely if the board allows it and the organization can enable participation, record remote votes, and verify voters. A meeting cannot be only electronic unless all members consent, the board finds a health or safety need, or there is a live audiovisual feed for the whole meeting. Small tech glitches do not end the meeting.

State may set grape pricing districts

If the federal‑state market news agreement is not in effect, the secretary of food and agriculture can define grape‑pricing districts in California.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Diane Dixon
Republican • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 138 • No: 0

Senate vote • 7/10/2025

Item 154 — Senate SFLOOR

Yes: 37 • No: 0

legislature vote • 7/1/2025

Vote in CS53

Yes: 13 • No: 0

House vote • 4/1/2025

Item 43 — Assembly AFLOOR

Yes: 76 • No: 0

legislature vote • 3/25/2025

Vote in CX13

Yes: 12 • No: 0

Actions Timeline

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 67, Statutes of 2025.
7/28/2025Senate
Approved by the Governor.
7/28/2025legislature
Enrolled and presented to the Governor at 3:30 p.m.
7/15/2025legislature
In Assembly. Ordered to Engrossing and Enrolling.
7/10/2025House
Read third time. Passed. Ordered to the Assembly. (Ayes 37. Noes 0. Page 2041.).
7/10/2025Senate
Read second time. Ordered to Consent Calendar.
7/3/2025Senate
From committee: Do pass. To Consent Calendar. (Ayes 13. Noes 0.) (July 1).
7/2/2025Senate
Referred to Com. on JUD.
5/7/2025Senate
In Senate. Read first time. To Com. on RLS. for assignment.
4/2/2025Senate
Read third time. Passed. Ordered to the Senate. (Ayes 76. Noes 0.)
4/1/2025House
Read second time. Ordered to Consent Calendar.
3/27/2025House
From committee: Do pass. To Consent Calendar. (Ayes 12. Noes 0.) (March 25).
3/26/2025House
Referred to Com. on JUD.
3/3/2025House
Read first time.
2/24/2025House
From printer. May be heard in committee March 24.
2/22/2025House
Introduced. To print.
2/21/2025House

Bill Text

Chaptered
7/28/2025
HTML
Enrolled
7/11/2025
HTML
Introduced
2/21/2025
HTML

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