Workplace Notice of Rights Act  (SB294)

Effective January 1, 2026

​​

SB 294, known as the Workplace Know Your Rights Act, is a California law (Senate Bill 294, authored by Senator Reyes) signed by Governor Newsom in October 2025 and effective January 1, 2026 (with key compliance dates starting February 2026).It requires all California employers to provide employees with a stand-alone written notice outlining key workplace rights and protections.

 

This must be given:

​

• To new hires upon employment.

• Annually to all current employees (first deadline: on or before February 1, 2026).

• Annually to any authorized employee representative (e.g., union rep), if applicable.

 

The required notice—based on a template developed and annually updated by the California Labor Commissioner—covers topics such as:

​

• Workers’ compensation rights.

• Protections against unfair immigration-related practices (e.g., retaliation or threats based on immigration status; laws apply regardless of immigration status).

• Right to notice before federal immigration inspections in non-public workplace areas.

• Right to organize or join a union and engage in protected concerted activities.

• Constitutional rights when interacting with law enforcement at the workplace.

• Option to designate an emergency contact to be notified if the employee is arrested or detained at work (with employers required to offer this opportunity and comply with notification requests).

 

The law aims to increase employee awareness of labor, immigration, and civil rights, particularly in light of workplace immigration enforcement concerns. Violations can result in civil penalties (up to $500 per employee per violation in most cases, with higher potential penalties for emergency contact provisions).The official model notice is available on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.

​​

​​​​​For more information, contact us:
 

Email: paul@amanteHR.com

Tel.: (714) 309-9677

 

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, nor shall it be construed as legal advice or guidance.

Consult with a professional for appropriate advice and guidance.