Bill 1870: Governor Gavin Newsom Signs Legislation to Boost Workers' Rights
Great news out of Sacramento…Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1870 into law! This new legislation, backed by the California Applicants' Attorneys Association, is another leap forward in strengthening workers' rights by requiring employers to ensure that injured employees are aware of their rights to seek legal counsel.
In addition to explaining injury reporting procedures and the rights to a treating physician, conspicuously located workplace posters must now clearly inform workers of their ability to consult an attorney to assist them in navigating the complexities of the workers' compensation system.
Furthermore, this provision underscores that no retaliatory action may be taken against the injured worker as they exercise these entitlements under the law, and that attorney fees are paid from an injured worker's benefit package, not out-of-pocket.
GEKLAW extends its appreciation to the Governor and lawmakers for their commitment to upholding workers' rights and ensuring fair treatment within the workplace. By expanding the information available to employees, the state aims to empower workers to make informed decisions about their health, well-being and legal options following a workplace injury.