California Assembly Bill AB1371

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/25
• Refer: 3/13/25
• Failed: 2/2/26

Caption

Occupational safety and health: employee refusal to perform hazardous tasks.

Impact

If enacted, AB 1371 would have significant implications for workplace safety and employee rights in California. The bill clarifies that employees are entitled to full wages during the duration of their refusal to perform a harmful task until the employer addresses the safety concern satisfactorily. This direct financial assurance aims to empower employees to prioritize their health and safety without the fear of economic repercussions from their employers.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 1371, introduced by Assembly Member Sharp-Collins, aims to revise the provisions related to employee refusal to perform hazardous tasks as outlined in the California Labor Code. The bill specifically sets out conditions under which employees can act in good faith to refuse tasks that pose a reasonable risk of injury or illness. The legislation seeks to strengthen the safety rights of employees by ensuring that they can voice concerns without fear of disciplinary action or adverse employment consequences.

Contention

Among the notable points of contention regarding AB 1371 is the potential pushback from employers concerned about the feasibility and implications of expanded employee rights in the workplace. Critics may argue that broadening the criteria under which employees can refuse work could lead to operational disruptions or abuse of the provisions by employees. Moreover, the removal of certain definitions, such as including domestic workers in previous protections, could lead to discussions around the inclusivity of the bill's provisions and the broader impact on various workforce segments.