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Newsom Signs Laws Expanding AI, Wage, and Threat Rules

By Drooid · Oct 13, 2026, 2:57 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Governor Gavin Newsom signed multiple employment laws on Sept. 30, 2026.
AB 1961 lets employers seek restraining orders against workplace threats targeting facilities or employee groups.
AB 2646 sets a $19.75 hourly minimum wage for seasonal agricultural workers, with cost-of-living adjustments Jan. 1, 2027.
SB 947 bars use of automated decision systems for discipline or termination unless a human reviewer validates recommendation, effective July 1, 2027.
SB 951 requires employers to disclose AI-driven layoffs as “technology displacement” under California’s WARN Act.

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Story summary

Governor Gavin Newsom signed multiple employment laws on Sept. 30, 2026.
AB 1961 lets employers seek restraining orders against workplace threats targeting facilities or employee groups.
AB 2646 sets a $19.75 hourly minimum wage for seasonal agricultural workers, with cost-of-living adjustments Jan. 1, 2027.
SB 947 bars use of automated decision systems for discipline or termination unless a human reviewer validates recommendation, effective July 1, 2027.
SB 951 requires employers to disclose AI-driven layoffs as “technology displacement” under California’s WARN Act.