A new bill in California aims to prohibit employers from contacting employees outside of working hours.
AB 2751, a bill introduced by State Representative Matt Haney, would improve work-life balance for California employees by creating a “right to disconnect” from calls, texts, and emails after work hours. The purpose is to
The bill would require California businesses to better define “compensation” hours and implement company-wide policies to comply with Right to Disconnect laws.
The state labor commission could investigate and fine employers who violate employees’ personal time.
“Compared to just 10 years ago, work has changed dramatically. Smartphones have blurred the line between work and home life,” Haney said. statement. “Workers should not be penalized for not being available 24/7 when they are not being paid for their 24 hours of work. You need to be able to spend time with your family without being interrupted, worrying about your phone, or answering work.”
The bill includes exceptions that allow employers to contact workers for collective bargaining, emergencies and scheduling.
“This bill has a lot of flexibility that ensures it applies to all businesses and types of employment in California, including areas that may require on-call or long hours,” Haney said. . “Many of California’s large employers are already complying with right-to-disconnect laws in other countries and are choosing to rapidly grow their companies in those regions.
“We created this book in a way that is specific to California businesses, while addressing the recent changes in work brought about by new technology. We will be more competitive to get the workers we need.”
The California Chamber of Commerce opposes the bill.
“This bill effectively imposes strict work schedules on all employees and prohibits communication between employers and employees except in emergencies,” said Ashley Hoffman, senior policy advocate at the California Chamber of Commerce. It’s a thing,” he said. letter I am against the bill. “This blanket rule is a setback for workplace flexibility.”
“It doesn’t take into account California’s long-standing laws regarding work hours, employee exemptions, and it doesn’t take into account the uniqueness of various industries and professions. They would no longer be able to contact their employees after hours, putting the state’s basic functions at risk.”
The bill has been referred to the Assembly Labor and Employment Committee for consideration in the coming weeks.
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