Minimum Wage Increase, Police Officers Can't Wear Masks, and All Gender Restrooms on tap for 2026 as California Laws Move Yet Further to the Left

Many new laws signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2025 take effect in California in 2026, with most starting on January 1, 2026 (unless otherwise noted). Over 800 bills became law, covering consumer protection, health care, labor, education, environment, public safety, and more. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Consumer & Environment. Plastic bag ban expansion - Stores can no longer provide thick plastic film bags at checkout; only recycled paper bags (with a fee) or truly reusable bags are allowed.

Fortified corn tortillas (AB 1830) - Commercially sold corn masa flour and tortillas must be fortified with folic acid to improve public health.

Food delivery app protections - Platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats must provide full refunds for incorrect/undelivered orders, disclose all fees clearly, and offer access to human customer service.

Data breach notifications (SB 446) - Businesses must notify affected customers within 30 days of discovering a breach.

Health Care & Affordability: Insulin cost cap (SB 40) - Copays for a 30-day supply are capped at $35 for many state-regulated health plans; low-cost state-branded insulin also becomes available.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) coverage - More health insurers must cover IVF treatments.

Labor & Wages: Minimum wage increase - Statewide minimum wage rises from $16.50 to $16.90 per hour (some cities/counties and industries like fast food/health care have higher rates).

Equal pay enhancements (SB 642) - Strengthens California's equal pay laws by broadening definitions, extending statutes of limitations, and clarifying unlawful practices based on sex, race, or ethnicity.

Education & SchoolsCell phone restrictions (AB 3216) - Public K-12 schools must adopt policies limiting or banning smartphone use on campus by July 1, 2026.

All-gender restrooms - Schools must provide at least one all-gender restroom by July 1, 2026.

Automatic CSU admission (SB 640) - Qualified high school seniors get automatic admission to certain California State University campuses.

Public Safety & Vehicles: Law enforcement identification & masking - Officers must display name/badge and agency; face coverings are generally prohibited (with exceptions).

Sexual solicitation penalties (AB 379) - Makes purchasing sex from 16-17-year-olds a felony and reinstates misdemeanor for loitering with intent to solicit.

Autonomous vehicles - New rules for interaction with law enforcement/first responders (some July 1, 2026).

Electric bikes & off-highway vehicles - Enhanced safety standards and requirements for e-bikes, lithium batteries, and off-highway electric motorcycles.

Other Notable LawsSexual assault lawsuits (AB 250) → Adult survivors get a temporary window (2026–2027) to file claims alleging cover-ups, even if past statute of limitations.

Diwali as state holiday (AB 268) → Recognizes Diwali officially; schools/community colleges may close, and state employees can take time off.

AI transparency → Requirements for detecting/watermarking AI-generated content and tools for users (some delayed).

Rental protections → Landlords must provide working appliances like refrigerators and stoves in new leases.

For a comprehensive list, check official sources like the Governor's office or the California Legislative Information website. Many laws aim to enhance affordability, safety, and equity, though some (like wage increases) may impact businesses.