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New Laws That Could Impact You in 2026
Hundreds of new laws took effect on January 1st in California. Many aim to prioritize public safety. Others expand on critical rights for consumers and employees throughout our state. We’ve highlighted some of the most notable new legislation below.
As we enter 2026, all of us at The Dominguez Firm would like to wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy New Year. If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident, our litigation attorneys are here to help. Call us at (800) 818-1818 for a free consultation today.
New Workplace Rights and Protections
Enhanced rights for survivors of workplace sexual assault and harassment
AB 250 temporarily lifts the statute of limitations for those seeking justice for workplace sexual harassment and assault. Adult survivors will have two years, from January 1, 2026, to December 2027, to file civil claims regardless of how long ago the incident occurred. This suspension allows them to take legal action, provided they were at least 18 at the time.
New Traffic Regulations
Enhanced red-light camera enforcement in Southern California
SB 720 allows any California city to opt into using automated red-light cameras at high-risk intersections. While not every municipality will participate, major cities such as Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Jose, and San Diego are expected to do so. These cameras issue $100 civil citations that do not add points to your driving record. The goal is to reduce dangerous crashes and fund local street safety projects.
Stricter penalties for driving under the influence
To further discourage dangerous driving, California has increased the penalties for DUI offenses under AB 1087. This includes longer mandatory probation periods for serious offenses and the extension of the Ignition Interlock Device program. Hopefully, this change will help keep impaired drivers off the road and reduce devastating DUI accidents and deaths.
Additional safety requirements for E-bikes
All electric bicycles and similar powered mobility devices must now be equipped with rear red reflectors and lights at all times of day. Under AB 544, these lights must be visible from a distance of 500 feet. This requirement enhances visibility and lowers the risk of collisions, especially during dawn, dusk, or poor weather conditions.
Increased oversight for autonomous vehicles
Autonomous vehicles are now subject to stronger enforcement under AB 1777. When a driverless vehicle commits a traffic violation, police can issue a formal Notice of AV Noncompliance. This is not a traffic ticket or a fine. It is a written enforcement notice sent to the autonomous vehicle operator, not the car manufacturer. For example, if a Waymo vehicle commits a violation, it receives the notice, not Jaguar. They must review the incident, fix the issue, and report back to the state. Repeated violations can cause increased oversight or limits on the vehicle’s operation.
In addition, starting July 1, driverless vehicles must be equipped with two-way communication systems. This change will allow first responders to speak directly with the vehicle during emergencies.
New AI Laws
Preventing AI from posing as licensed professionals
AB 489 prohibits AI chatbots from presenting themselves as doctors, nurses, or other licensed professionals. This increases transparency and prevents people from being misled into thinking they’re receiving actual medical or professional advice from a qualified person.
Sustainability Initiatives
No more plastic bags at grocery stores
SB 1053 strengthens California’s plastic bag ban. The law eliminates plastic film checkout bags altogether at grocery stores and similar retailers. Stores must now transition to truly reusable bags or paper bags with recycled content requirements. Retailers that do not sell groceries or have a pharmacy, such as apparel stores, are generally exempt, though they may still face stricter local ordinances.
What These New Laws Mean for You
These new laws reflect California’s commitment to protecting workers, families, and consumers. Whether you’ve experienced sexual harassment at work or were seriously injured in a car accident, understanding these new protections can help you make informed decisions about your legal options.
At The Dominguez Firm, we stay up to date on all new legislation that impacts you and your family. We’re here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one were seriously injured in an accident, call us for a free consultation at (800) 818-1818 today.