California is always hoping to improve safety and security for people living in the state. These are some ways that California has chosen to do so:
AI Safety Law:
One new law being put into effect this year is a list of new requirements that large artificial intelligence corporations must follow. This new law, SB 53, includes safety disclosure requirements that require corporations such as ChatGPT to be transparent about their intentions to keep user information safe and their incorporation of national security standards.
This new safety law on AI aims to be more transparent with users, taking accountability and responsibility for safety risk, becoming safer, and increasing innovation by advancing development. According to an article by the California State Portal, “This bill will strengthen California’s ability to monitor, evaluate, and respond to critical safety incidents […] empowering the state to act quickly to protect public safety.” This message was signed by California’s Governor, Gavin Newsom, when he approved the AI Safety Law being implemented in 2026.
Minimum Wage Increase:
Starting on January first, the state of California decided to increase the minimum wage from $16.50 to $16.90 per hour. All minimum-wage employers will receive a 40-cent-per-hour increase, regardless of size.
California wanted to increase the minimum wage for workers due to annual inflation adjustments specific to the fast food and healthcare industries. Although workers may be glad about the rise in minimum wages, some worry that the salary threshold for employees to be exempt from overtime will increase, along with hourly wages. As reported by the California Workplace Law Blog, “The most common exemptions are for executive, administrative, and professional roles. Employees in these capacities generally qualify if their work meets detailed requirements and they earn at least twice the state minimum wage for full-time employment.” This statement means that not all workers have to worry about being exempt from overtime if their professions do not meet the specific requirements.
Traffic Enforcement Law:
California Plans to enforce a 5-year pilot program using cameras to prevent people from breaking the rules of the road and committing traffic violations. This law, AB 645, allows local governments to use video surveillance to catch cars running red lights and speeding on roads.
The state has decided to install about 125 cameras in “high-risk areas,” including parks and school zones. By adding cameras in cities like Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Jose, people will be more careful about violating traffic laws in these areas. These cameras intend to issue tickets for people who are driving 11 miles per hour or more over the speed limit. Fines for breaking the law range from $50 to $500. In accordance with California Legislative Information, “This bill would specify that any violation of a speed law recorded by a speed safety system authorized by these provisions would be subject only to the provided civil penalties.” Overall, this new 2026 law hopes to increase safety by enforcing traffic laws.
These new laws taking place in 2026 hope to increase safety and security statewide.
