On July 15, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill (AB) 1870, requiring employers in California to inform injured employees of their right to consult a licensed attorney regarding workers’ compensation claims, with the possibility that attorney fees could be paid from the worker’s award. This new mandate, effective January 1, 2025, expands existing obligations for employers, including posting workers’ compensation information prominently and providing new hires with a pamphlet outlining their rights and benefits.
The state is expected to provide updated notices and posters that include information on rights to consult legal counsel before the effective date.
Next Steps
Once made available by the state, employers should ensure that they display and/or provide the most current version of workers’ compensation information to employees. Employers should ensure workers’ compensation policies and procedures align with the law, ensuring they are timely in giving injured employees the necessary claim forms.
