Bill > SB442

This bill establishes new regulations for self-service checkout systems in grocery retail stores and retail drug establishments with 75 or more businesses in California. The bill requires that stores with self-service checkout maintain at least one manual checkout station staffed by an employee who is available to assist customers, limit self-service checkout to purchases of 15 items or fewer, and prohibit the use of self-service checkout for items requiring identification (like alcohol) or items with special theft-deterrent measures. Stores must also include self-service checkout in their workplace safety analysis and notify workers and their collective bargaining representatives at least 60 days before implementing such systems. The legislation stems from concerns about increased retail theft, job losses, and technological inefficiencies associated with self-checkout machines. Violations of these provisions can result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation per day, not exceeding $200,000 in total. The bill does not prevent local jurisdictions from implementing worker protections that are equal or more comprehensive, and it aims to balance technological efficiency with worker protection and customer service in retail environments.

Budget and Finance, Justice, Labor and Employment

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB442