California Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Restrict Use of AI in Employment Decisions
In March of 2025, California lawmakers introduced a proposal to restrict the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in employment decisions. The legislation—Senate Bill 7 (SB 7)—would both limit and regulate the use of AI and related technologies in hiring, firing, and other personnel decisions. It is referred to as the “No Robo Bosses Act.” Here, our California workplace solution attorney for employers provides an overview of the proposed law.
An Overview of Senate Bill 7 (No Robo Bosses Act)
Senate Bill 7—The “No Robo Bosses Act”—was introduced by California State Senator Jerry McNerney. The stated purpose of the proposed legislation is to regulate the use of automated decision-making systems (ADS) in employment practices. In other words, it is a new employment regulation for the use of AI and AI-related tools. Here are some of the key points that employers in California should know about the proposed law in its current form:
- A Notice Requirement: The law would require employers to give workers, job applicants, and contractors a clear, easy-to-understand notice that AI is being used in employment decisions. This notice must come at least 30 days before the system is introduced.
- Transparency About AI Tools Already in Use: The law would also require employers to keep a current list of all ADS tools they use. The list must be shared in the notice to employees, contractors, and job applicants.
- A Ban on Sole AI Decision Making for Personnel Decisions: Under the law, employers would not be allowed to base hiring, promotions, discipline, or firing decisions solely on the output of an AI. A human must be involved in these choices.
- A Restriction on “Harmful” AI Use: The law would also hold that employers cannot use AI in a harmful manner, including in ways that break other California law or punish workers for exercising their rights.
- Employee Right to Review and Correct Personal Data: The law would provide workers with a right to see the information that AI tools use about them and provide them with a way to fix any mistakes.
- The Direct Right to Appeal AI-Related Decisions: If a job-related decision is made using AI, the law would give workers the right to appeal. Further, the law would require that a human must review the decision during the appeal process.
SB 7 Has Not Been Passed as of this Writing
To be clear, employers should know that SB 7 is not currently the law in California. It is a proposal. The bill was passed by the State Senate and, as of this writing, is still being considered by the California Assembly.
Speak to Our California Employment Attorney for Employers Today
At Sloat Law Group, APC, our California employment lawyer is standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. If you have any questions about your rights, please do not hesitate to contact us for a fully confidential initial consultation. Our firm works with employers in Coachella Valley, Riverside County, and statewide in California.
Source:
leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB7
