Hunton Employment & Labor Perspectives

As employers continue finding new ways to use artificial intelligence (“AI”) tools and software to support business operations, state legislators have taken notice.

California has enacted a number of new laws that will impact employers in 2026.  Please join Hunton’s California labor and employment lawyers as they discuss new legislation and other legal developments affecting employers.

Artificial intelligence (“AI”) has become an ever-increasing presence in the workplace.  AI can help employees focus on more meaningful work by eliminating certain rote tasks including note taking or transcribing meetings.  But, as with any workplace tool, some notes of caution are necessary.

The National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB” or “Board”) has a quorum for the first time in nearly a year. 

Every January, new California employment laws take effect and 2026 is no different, bringing changes to employment contracts, pay data reporting, paid family leave, and other employment-related topics. The following list highlights five new California employment laws for employers to be aware of in the year ahead.