California Workers’ Compensation Law Updates: New Bills Signed in 2025
Following the close of the latest California legislative session, several new bills were signed by the Governor that impact workers’ compensation law across the state. Below is a quick summary of what’s new and why it matters.
SB 779 – Penalties for Unlicensed Contractors
Contractors who falsely claim to be exempt from having workers’ compensation insurance will now face a minimum $1,500 fine.
This change underscores a long-standing rule: if you hire an unlicensed contractor to perform work requiring a license and they get injured, they’re considered your employee by law. That means you could be liable for their medical care and disability benefits—a costly mistake many homeowners and businesses don’t realize until it’s too late.
SB 230 – Airport Firefighter Presumption
Firefighters working at commercial airports now receive the same workers’ compensation presumptions as those stationed at Department of Defense or NASA facilities.
These presumptions include coverage for heart trouble, hernias, pneumonia, and other conditions recognized under California Labor Code §3212.
AB 1125 – Peace Officers at State Hospitals
Peace officers employed by the Department of State Hospitals are now included in the list of public safety officers who receive statutory presumptions for heart injuries under California’s workers’ compensation laws.
AB 1293 – Standardized QME Templates
This bill directs the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) to create a standardized template for letters and interrogatories submitted to Qualified Medical Examiners (QMEs).
Currently, each side can send its own version—leading to inconsistency. A standardized format aims to streamline communication and reduce disputes.
AB 799 – Death Benefits for Incarcerated Firefighters
Families of incarcerated firefighters who die in the line of duty may now be eligible for up to $50,000 in death benefits.
(As of October 9, 2025, this bill was on the Governor’s desk awaiting signature.)
AB 1336 – Heat Injury Presumption for Farmworkers
AB 1336 creates new protections for agricultural workers who suffer heat-related illnesses or injuries.
If a farmworker becomes sick from heat exposure after working outdoors for an employer that failed to follow Cal/OSHA heat illness prevention standards—such as providing shade, water, and rest breaks—the injury is presumed to be work-related.
The employer must prove otherwise. If they can’t, the worker is entitled to full workers’ compensation benefits, including medical treatment and disability pay.
This law will remain in effect until January 1, 2031. (Also awaiting the Governor’s signature as of October 9, 2025.)
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE LAW AND WHETHER YOU ARE EFFECTED? CALL LEE PARTNERS LAW - DAVID A LEE ESQ. FOR A FREE CONSULT (310)295-0822