Golden State Today

California's legislative session in 2025 has seen a series of bills introduced, sparking diverse opinions regarding their potential impact on small businesses.

John Jones's Senate Bill 2 is under consideration. The bill aims to reverse certain changes to the Low-Carbon Fuel Standard regulations made by the California Air Resources Board on November 8, 2024.

Assembly Bill 24, introduced by Carl DeMaio, proposes a budget balance strategy. It includes measures to cap annual labor costs and require a two-thirds majority in the Legislature to approve the state budget and any new program fees.

Another notable proposal is Senate Bill 628 by Shannon Grove. This bill would allow employers to claim a tax credit equal to the amount of overtime wages paid to specific agricultural workers during a quarter.

Senate Bill 84, brought forward by Ted Niello, aims to shield a defendant from statutory damages, attorney’s fees, or costs if a violation is remedied within 120 days following a notification.

In contrast, various legislation could negatively impact small businesses, according to critics. For example, Maria Elena Durazo's Senate Bill 590 seeks to broaden the eligibility for paid family leave benefits, expanding the definition of a "designated person."

Scott Wiener's Senate Bill 310 permits wage theft penalties to be recovered through an independent civil lawsuit. Also, Anna M. Caballero's Senate Bill 555 proposes cost of living adjustments for workers' compensation benefits.

Ayesha Wahab introduced Senate Bill 261, addressing wage theft and labor laws. The bill would make it mandatory for the commissioner to publicly post relevant orders, decisions, or awards online within 15 days after the appeal period has expired.

The session also includes controversial legislation labeled as 'Ugly Bills.' Among them, Scott Wiener's Senate Bill 222 aims to enable civil lawsuits under specific conditions against entities responsible for climate-related disasters due to misinformation or deceptive practices.

Another contentious proposal, Senate Bill 809, also introduced by Maria Elena Durazo, declares that merely owning a vehicle or tools utilised for labor does not constitute an independent contractor status.