Raft of New Laws Go Into Effect in California on July 1

A significant number of new laws, impacting a wide range of sectors from consumer protection to public health, are set to go into effect across California on July 1, 2024. This is part of the more than 1,000 bills signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2023. While some of these measures have already been enacted earlier this year, the latest batch set to go into effect July 1 includes notable legislation on transparency in pricing, renters’ rights, public safety, and consumer protections.

Among the new regulations, SB 478 will require businesses to advertise prices inclusive of all mandatory fees, aiming to eliminate hidden charges. Bars and nightclubs will be mandated to sell drug testing kits under AB 1013, and a new 11% tax on firearms and ammunition will be implemented through AB 28. Additionally, SB 244 introduces the Right to Repair, compelling electronics manufacturers to provide documentation and spare parts for devices priced over $50. Renters will see relief with AB 12, which caps security deposits at one month’s rent, and workplaces will need to comply with SB 553, demanding comprehensive violence prevention plans.

Here is a list of the major new laws:

1. Hidden Fees: SB 478 prohibits businesses from advertising prices that do not include all mandatory fees and charges, excluding government taxes and fees. This law aims to increase price transparency and eliminate hidden charges in transactions such as those for concert tickets and short-term lodging rentals
2. Drug Testing Kits: AB 1013 requires bars and nightclubs to sell drug testing kits and post notices about their availability. This measure is intended to help prevent drink spiking incidents
3. Gun Tax: AB 28 imposes an 11% state tax on firearms and ammunition. This makes California the first state to implement such a tax, which is intended to fund violence prevention programs
4. Right to Repair: SB 244 mandates that manufacturers of electronics priced at $50 or higher must provide documentation and spare parts for repairs. This law supports consumers’ ability to repair their own devices or seek third-party repairs
5. Security Deposits: AB 12 caps security deposits for residential rentals at one month’s rent. This applies regardless of whether the property is furnished or unfurnished, with specific provisions for landlords with small rental portfolios allowing for up to two months’ rent as a deposit
6. Workplace Violence Prevention Plan: SB 553 requires employers to develop and implement comprehensive workplace violence prevention plans. This includes mandatory training, incident logging, and procedures for responding to workplace violence reports

Additionally, other laws going into effect on July 1, 2024, include:

• Campsite Reservations: AB 618 imposes fees on state campsite reservation holders who cancel within two to six days of their stays
• Noncompetition Agreements: SB 699 expands the prohibition on noncompetition agreements in California
• Presumption of Retaliation: SB 497 creates a presumption of retaliation if an employee is discharged or disciplined within 90 days of certain protected activities
• Ebony Alerts: SB 673 creates a new emergency alert system to help locate missing Black women and youth
• ‘Excited Delirium’: AB 360 prohibits coroners, medical examiners, and physicians from using the term “excited delirium” as a cause of death