If you're an employer in California, it's time to start paying attention to some important new employment and labor laws that will come into play in 2025. The Golden State is known for its progressive approach to worker protections, and the latest round of laws promises to reshape how businesses manage employees, from anti-discrimination measures to workplace safety. Staying up to date will not only help you avoid penalties but also create a fairer, more inclusive workplace for all your employees. Here’s a quick summary of the key changes that could impact your business in 2025. 

Although often cited as a source of free speech rights, the First Amendment does not actually provide employees with a constitutional right to express political thoughts or opinions in a private workplace (as it only controls government action). As a general matter, employers can regulate what employees say and do in the workplace during working hours. However, federal and state laws exist that complicate an employer’s efforts to control the political speech, activities, affiliation of their employees.