Four new California laws that could shape your next case

New California legislation is paving the way for the next wave of class action opportunities. In 2025, four key laws will take effect in California that will reshape workplace rights, consumer protections, and business obligations. These changes create new legal risks for employers and companies—while opening the door for impactful litigation and advocacy. Understanding these updates now can help you identify potential cases and stay ahead of the evolving legal landscape.

Assembly Bill No. 2123: Expanded paid family leave protections

Starting Jan. 1, 2025, employers can no longer require employees to use up to two weeks of vacation leave before accessing Family Temporary Disability Insurance (FTDI) benefits (California’s Paid Family Leave program). The bill reinforces that individuals already receiving unemployment or disability benefits are not eligible for paid family leave.

Potential cases: The updates could create opportunities for cases related to improper denials of paid family leave or employer mismanagement of leave policies

Assembly Bill No. 2863: Strengthened subscription transparency

Effective July 1, 2025, AB No. 2863 mandates explicit consumer consent for automatic renewals and clear disclosure of terms. Businesses must simplify cancellation processes and retain consent records. 

Potential cases: These changes aim to protect California consumers from misleading free-to-pay trial conversions and obstructive cancellation practices.

Assembly Bill No. 2499: Workplace protections for violence victims

Effective Jan. 1, 2025, AB No. 2499 enhances protections for victims of violence by requiring employers to provide reasonable workplace accommodations, expanding leave rights, and mandating that employers notify employees of these rights. It integrates these protections into California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). 

Potential cases: These updates may increase the number of class action lawsuits for noncompliance, retaliation, or denied accommodations.

Senate Bill No. 988: Freelance Worker Protection Act

Effective Jan. 1, 2025, this law mandates written contracts for freelance engagements over $250, enforces payment timelines, and imposes penalties for violations. 

Potential cases: Nonpayment and adverse actions against freelancers could form the basis for impactful cases.

Do these new changes spark any case theory ideas? Let’s discuss how Top Class Actions can help your firm find plaintiffs with a targeted campaign.