California Draws First Line Against AI Bosses as Newsom Signs Worker Protections

On September 30, Newsom signed 13 AI-related bills. One stands out. SB 947, known as the No Robo Bosses Act, makes California the first state to prohibit employers from relying solely on automated systems for discipline or termination. A human must review the output. That person has to bring independent evidence such as manager evaluations, peer reviews or personnel files. Rubber-stamping the machine’s conclusion falls short. Workers receive notice when AI played a primary role, along with a description of the data used and a contact who can explain the decision. The rules take effect July 1, 2027.

“No worker should ever be fired or disciplined by a robo boss,” said state Sen. Jerry McNerney, the bill’s author. He added that AI systems can boost productivity but remain prone to errors, bias and misjudgments. The legislation drew support from the California Federation of Labor Unions.

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