Bill > AB1245

This bill, an amendment to the Public Contract Code, aims to strengthen protections against forced labor and human trafficking in state contracts valued over $550,000, effective January 1, 2027. It requires contractors to certify not only that their goods are not produced by forced labor but also that their operations and those of their subcontractors comply with specific prohibitions against human trafficking, including restrictions on recruitment practices, document confiscation, and the provision of adequate housing. Contractors must implement compliance plans, conduct due diligence to ensure subcontractors adhere to these rules, and notify employees of prohibited activities and potential consequences. The bill also expands the sanctions for violations, allowing for contract suspension, termination of subcontractors, and withholding of payments, and clarifies that these requirements apply regardless of where the work is performed. Furthermore, it mandates that contractors and subcontractors disclose violations to state agencies and cooperate with investigations, while also allowing administrative law judges to consider mitigating and aggravating factors when imposing sanctions. The definition of "forced labor" is updated to include knowingly obtaining labor through threats of serious harm or physical restraint, or by abusing the legal process.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1245