California Considers Right to Disconnect Law to Limit Off-Hour Work Contacts

A proposed California law would make it illegal for employers to regularly contact employees outside of work hours, unless it's an emergency or about work schedules. Fines would apply.

The aim is to give workers a "right to disconnect" and have boundaries around work, as current technologies make people feel always on call.

Over half of workers respond to work messages in off hours, per a 2023 Pew survey. The law follows moves in 13 other countries.

Opponents including the California Chamber of Commerce say it's too restrictive for employers and could limit workplace flexibility.

If passed, the law would require companies to establish and communicate clear policies around work hours and respecting time off.