California Assembly Bill AB845

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/25
• Refer: 3/28/25
• Report Pass: 3/28/25
• Refer: 4/1/25
• Report Pass: 4/21/25
• Refer: 4/22/25
• Report Pass: 4/24/25
• Refer: 4/24/25
• Refer: 5/7/25
• Report Pass: 5/23/25
• Engrossed: 6/3/25
• Refer: 6/4/25
• Refer: 6/18/25
• Report Pass: 6/25/25
• Refer: 6/25/25
• Refer: 7/7/25
• Report Pass: 8/29/25
• Enrolled: 9/10/25

Caption

Employment: complaints: agricultural employees.

Impact

The enactment of AB 845 will directly influence state labor laws by emphasizing the significance of confidentiality when processing complaints from agricultural employees. Specifically, it prohibits disclosing the identity of a complainant without their consent, thereby encouraging more workers to come forward without fear of retribution. The bill involves several agencies, including the Agricultural Labor Relations Board and the Department of Industrial Relations, fostering a collaborative approach to workforce issues which may lead to more efficient and effective handling of disputes within the agricultural sector.

Summary

Assembly Bill 845, introduced by Assembly Member Arambula, aims to address the treatment of agricultural employees in California by enhancing the process for handling complaints within the Labor and Workforce Development Agency. The bill mandates that upon intake of any complaint from an agricultural worker, various departments under the agency must collaborate to ensure the complaint is forwarded to the appropriate entity for investigation. This initiative is part of a broader effort to safeguard the rights of agricultural workers and improve working conditions in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 845 appears to be generally positive, especially among advocates for agricultural workers' rights. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step toward improving the safety and fairness for workers in one of California's most vital industries. However, there may be concerns regarding the bill's implementation, particularly around the adequacy of resources for these departments to handle increased complaint volumes effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the interpretations of 'reasonable efforts' to protect confidentiality, as well as potential resource allocation among the various entities involved. Some stakeholders may express anxiety about whether the bill will effectively address the unique challenges faced by agricultural workers, or if it might lead to increased bureaucracy that hampers quick resolutions of complaints. Overall, AB 845 represents an essential dialogue about balancing worker rights with operational efficiency within California's agricultural industry.