Bill > AB1326

This bill adds a new chapter to California's Health and Safety Code that establishes an individual's right to wear a health mask (defined specifically as a medical-grade surgical mask or N95/KN95 respirator) in public places for protecting personal or public health, including preventing disease transmission, addressing air quality concerns, or other health factors. The bill comprehensively defines "public places" to include businesses, transportation, healthcare settings, educational institutions, workplaces, and other publicly accessible locations. While affirming the right to wear masks, the bill also provides important exceptions and limitations, such as allowing temporary mask removal for identification purposes (like airport security or age verification), ensuring essential workplace functions can be performed, and maintaining existing safety protocols. The legislation preserves existing nondiscrimination protections for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions, ensuring that the mask-wearing right cannot be used to circumvent protections under federal laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act. Importantly, the bill aims to provide clarity and legal support for individuals who choose to wear masks for health protection in various public settings, reflecting ongoing concerns about disease transmission and personal health management.

Health and Social Services, Justice, Labor and Employment

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1326