As expected, the California Legislature was quite active following the return from summer recess in August 2023, and leading up to the September 14^th end of session. Indeed, the Legislature passed several bills that were signed into law, including a law (SB 699) extending California’s already robust prohibitions on covenants not to complete in the employment context. These new laws all take effect on January 1, 2024 and are discussed below.

Not surprisingly, the Legislature also passed a number of significant employment bill that have been presented to Governor Gavin Newsom for signature or veto by October 14, 2023. We have identified the “Top Twelve” proposed employment law changes that could have the most significant impact on California employers.