California bans AI systems from firing workers without human review

California has become the first U.S. state to restrict so-called 'robo-bosses,' signing a law that bars employers from using artificial intelligence systems to make final decisions to fire workers without human review. Governor Gavin Newsom had previously vetoed a similar measure but reversed course to sign the new version into law.

The law targets a growing trend of companies using AI tools for workforce management, including scheduling, performance evaluation and termination decisions. Supporters say it protects workers from opaque automated systems making life-altering decisions without accountability.

The move adds California to a small but growing list of jurisdictions imposing guardrails on workplace AI, as more employers adopt automated tools to manage staffing and performance.