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Bill

Bill

AB 288

Employment: labor organization and unfair practices.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Addis and 39 co-sponsors

California expands labor protections and unfair practice prohibitions to strengthen employee unionization rights and employer accountability in workplace organizing activities.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 139, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 288

Legislative bill overview

AB 288 modifies California labor law to expand protections for labor organization activities and strengthen prohibitions against unfair labor practices by employers. The bill, which passed with bipartisan support and was signed into law in September 2025, creates new legal standards and enforcement mechanisms regarding employee unionization efforts and employer conduct during labor disputes.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects the balance of power between employers and workers in California, impacting workplace organizing campaigns, collective bargaining rights, and potential penalties for employer violations. With California's large workforce and influential labor market, this law may influence labor practices across the state and potentially set precedent for other jurisdictions considering similar protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Employers may face increased legal liability and compliance burdens, potentially raising operational costs and creating uncertainty about permissible labor relations practices
  • Definition disputes: The specific language defining "unfair practices" and "labor organization" activities could create litigation over borderline employer conduct and employee protected activities
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions may arise about which agency enforces these provisions, investigation procedures, timelines, and whether remedies adequately deter violations or overreach in protecting organizing activity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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