As of January 1, 2025, California has banned work meetings that involve religious or political discussions from being mandatory. Known as “captive audience meetings,” these gatherings often leave employees feeling pressured to listen or participate in conversations that don’t relate to their job. Now, thanks to SB 399, workers across the state will have the right to opt out of these types of meetings—without fear of discipline or retaliation.
What Are Captive Audience Meetings?
Captive audience meetings are mandatory employer-led meetings often used to share opinions about unionization, politics, or religion. Because they’re required, employees can feel uncomfortable expressing disagreement or even asking questions. SB 399 aims to protect employees from being forced into these conversations.
What Does SB 399 Do?
SB 399 has banned work meetings deemed as Captive Audience Meetings, making it unlawful for employers in California to require employees to attend meetings where the primary purpose is to discuss political or religious matters. This includes communications about unionizing, political campaigns, legislative policy, and religious practices. Employers can still hold these meetings—but employees now have the legal right to decline participation.
What This Means for You as an Employee
If you’re working in California in 2025, this law protects your right to choose how you engage at work. You can now opt out of meetings that don’t relate directly to your job function or duties. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against you for choosing not to attend, and any attempt to do so could result in legal consequences.
How It Aligns with DEI and Workplace Fairness
This law supports a more inclusive and respectful workplace culture by ensuring that diverse voices, beliefs, and backgrounds are respected. Just like DEI initiatives, SB 399 encourages boundaries between personal beliefs and professional expectations—leading to more equitable work environments.
California’s SB 399 empowers employees by ensuring that mandatory meetings stay focused on work—not personal beliefs. It’s one more step toward creating workplaces that are inclusive, fair, and legally sound. Knowing your rights is essential—and this law makes it clear: your voice matters, and so does your right not to use it in the wrong setting.
Balance is Here to Help!
At Balance Staffing, we believe your workplace should respect your rights, your beliefs, and your boundaries. That’s why we partner with companies that prioritize fairness and inclusion.
👉 Contact our team to find your next opportunity—at a place where you can feel heard and respected.
