California Senator Introduces ‘No Robo Bosses Act’ to Regulate AI in the Workplace
On March 6, 2025, California State Senator Jerry McNerney, a Democrat from Pleasanton, introduced Senate Bill 7, known as the “No Robo Bosses Act”. This legislation aims to ensure human oversight over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in employment decisions within the workplace.
Legislative Intent
Senator McNerney emphasized that the objective of the bill is not to eliminate the use of automated decision-making systems (ADS) in business operations, but rather to create essential guardrails around their implementation. “Businesses are increasingly using AI to boost efficiency and productivity in the workplace. But there are currently no safeguards to prevent machines from unjustly or illegally impacting workers’ livelihoods and working conditions,” he stated.
If enacted, SB 7 would prohibit companies from making critical employment decisions—such as hiring, promotion, discipline, or termination—solely based on automated systems without human oversight. Furthermore, the legislation would restrict employers from allowing ADS to utilize personal information for predicting workers’ future behaviors.
Historical Context and Future Implications
This legislation is poised to become the first of its kind in the United States if signed into law. The California Federation of Labor Unions, AFL-CIO, which represents over 1,300 unions and 2.3 million union members, sponsors the bill. Lorena Gonzalez, president of the California Federation of Labor Unions, emphasized the need for human oversight in decision-making processes that significantly affect workers’ jobs and safety.
Community and Legal Perspectives
Law firm Fisher Phillips weighed in on the potential impacts of the legislation, suggesting that the prohibition of predictive AI could lead to significant controversy. The firm noted that such a ban might hinder progress and efficiency, as it could encompass common applications of AI that are beneficial to employees, such as employee retention and satisfaction.
As states take the lead in regulating AI, this bill reflects a growing trend towards establishing boundaries for AI technologies in the workplace. The federal government has yet to make substantial strides in this area, as evidenced by the failure of a similarly titled bill, the “No Robot Bosses Act,” to advance out of committee last year.
Conclusion
The No Robo Bosses Act signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding the regulation of AI technologies in employment settings. As discussions continue, the balance between innovation and worker protection remains a primary concern for lawmakers, labor unions, and business groups alike.
