California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SB 947, the No Robo Bosses Act, into law, prohibiting employers from using artificial intelligence as the sole basis for firing or disciplining workers. The legislation, effective immediately, requires employers to implement human review for any disciplinary or termination decisions primarily driven by AI systems. Employers must also provide written notice to affected employees detailing the AI’s role in their case, including the data used and a human contact for further explanation.
The law follows Newsom’s earlier veto of a similar bill in 2024, marking a reversal in his stance on AI regulation in the workplace. It was authored by State Senator Jerry McNerney, a Democrat, who cited concerns over AI errors, misjudgments, and bias in automated employment decisions. "No worker should ever be fired or disciplined by a machine," McNerney stated. "AI must remain a tool controlled by humans, not the other way around."
In addition to SB 947, Newsom signed a broader package of AI-related laws aimed at protecting workers. These include prohibitions on using AI to predict a worker’s emotional state via biometric data, requirements for written notices to employees if AI is involved in mass layoffs, and a mandate for state agencies to refer to the technology as "artificial intelligence" rather than "super intelligence." Newsom also issued an executive order directing state agencies to consult experts on improving AI oversight.
Key Provisions of SB 947
- Employers cannot rely exclusively on AI to fire or discipline workers.
- Decisions made primarily by AI require human corroboration using additional factors such as managerial evaluations or personnel files.
- Employees must receive written notice if AI was a principal factor in their termination or disciplinary action, along with details of the data used and a human point of contact.
Broader AI Workplace Protections
The new laws also address concerns about workplace surveillance and job displacement. One measure requires employers to notify workers if AI is used in mass layoffs, while another bans the use of AI to assess a worker’s emotional state through biometric data. Newsom emphasized the need for California to lead in AI regulation amid the absence of federal action, stating, "AI should expand opportunity — not come at the expense of workers and families."
Newsom’s signing of the bills occurred on his final day to approve or veto legislation before terming out in January 2025. He criticized the lack of federal AI regulations during a press conference, contrasting California’s proactive approach with recent federal actions, including former President Donald Trump’s directive for U.S. diplomats to use the term "super intelligence" when referring to AI.
Reactions and Next Steps
Labor groups praised the legislation, framing it as a victory for worker rights and organized labor’s advocacy. Tech industry responses were not detailed in the reporting. Newsom left open the possibility of calling a special legislative session to further address AI oversight if federal action remains stalled.
The laws take effect immediately, with enforcement mechanisms to be determined by state agencies. Employers are expected to update their AI governance policies to comply with the new requirements.