Democratic Assemblyman Matt Haney of San Francisco introduced a bill in California that would give workers the right to disconnect from work communications after hours. This is in response to the increasing pressure on employees to respond to work messages outside of regular working hours, especially with the rise of remote work during the pandemic. The issue of work-related stress and burnout has led many countries to consider implementing “right to disconnect” laws, with California potentially being the first state in the U.S. to do so.
Assembly Bill 2751, if passed, would require employers in California to establish a policy allowing employees to ignore work communications during nonworking hours, except in emergencies or for scheduling purposes. Employees and employers would need to agree on established nonworking hours in writing. Employers who violate this rule could face civil penalties of at least $100, based on the current version of the bill. This legislation aims to address the negative impact of work-related stress and improve the overall well-being and productivity of workers in California.
While California would be the first state in the U.S. to consider a right-to-disconnect law, several other countries, including France and Kenya, have already implemented similar legislation. Studies have shown that workers in these countries reported being healthier, happier, and more productive after the implementation of these laws. Haney’s office noted that providing California workers with the right to disconnect can help the state compete with others like Texas and New York to attract skilled workers, particularly in the tech sector.
Haney emphasized the importance of giving workers the ability to disconnect from work-related communications, especially in light of the increasing competition among states to attract skilled workers. By implementing this legislation, California can create a more favorable environment for workers, ultimately benefiting both employees and the state’s economy. With the pandemic blurring the boundaries between work and personal life, the right-to-disconnect law aims to improve the quality of life for workers and promote a healthier work-life balance in California.
The proposed bill aligns with the global trend towards establishing right-to-disconnect laws as a means of addressing workplace stress and burnout. By acknowledging the impact of constant connectivity on mental health and overall well-being, policymakers are recognizing the importance of setting boundaries in the digital age. If passed, the legislation in California could set a precedent for other states to follow suit and prioritize the health and happiness of their workforce. Ultimately, by granting workers the right to disconnect, California is taking a proactive step towards promoting a healthier work environment and improving the overall quality of life for its employees.
