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Bill

AB 1286

Political Reform Act of 1974: prospective employment.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tasha Boerner

AB 1286 establishes new prospective employment restrictions for California public officials under the Political Reform Act of 1974 to address conflicts of interest.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 186, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 1286

Legislative bill overview

AB 1286 amends California's Political Reform Act of 1974 to establish new restrictions or requirements regarding prospective employment for public officials. The bill passed unanimously through both chambers and was signed into law in October 2025. The specific provisions relate to how elected or appointed officials can engage in future employment opportunities.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses potential conflicts of interest and the "revolving door" between government service and private sector employment. Such measures affect public trust in government by regulating whether officials can negotiate private sector jobs while still in office or immediately after leaving public positions.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of restrictions: Disagreement over whether the prospective employment limits are too broad (affecting all officials equally) or too narrow (creating loopholes for certain positions)
  • Enforceability and penalties: Questions about how violations will be detected, investigated, and what consequences officials face for non-compliance
  • Economic burden on public service: Concerns that strict employment restrictions might deter qualified candidates from seeking public office or make it harder to attract talented professionals to government

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

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