Federal Judge Blocks Enforcement of California’s SB 399

California, October 4, 2025

News Summary

A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction against California’s Senate Bill 399, which aimed to limit employer discussions on religious and political topics. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Daniel Calabretta reaffirms employers’ First Amendment rights, particularly in the context of mandatory meetings. Business advocates have praised the decision as a significant win for small business owners. The injunction halts SB 399’s enforcement as further litigation proceeds, emphasizing the legal tension between state and federal labor laws.

California – A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction against California’s Senate Bill 399 (SB 399), effectively blocking its enforcement. This decision, made by U.S. District Judge Daniel Calabretta, affirms employers’ First Amendment rights to communicate freely about religious and political issues within their businesses.

SB 399, which was passed in 2024 and took effect in 2025, aimed to limit employers’ ability to discuss these sensitive topics, particularly in the context of mandatory meetings. Judge Calabretta ruled that the legislation is preempted under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), highlighting that it infringes on employers’ rights to freely express their views.

The ruling received praise from business advocates, including the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), whose California state director noted the significance of the decision for small business owners. The injunction halts enforcement of SB 399 while further litigation is underway.

The California Chamber of Commerce and the California Restaurant Association were among the plaintiffs who initiated the federal lawsuit last December, contesting the constitutionality of SB 399. They argue that it imposes unreasonable legal liabilities on employers communicating about essential workplace matters. The legislation was previously labeled a “Job Killer” during the 2024 legislative session.

One of the central issues highlighted in the lawsuit is that SB 399 seeks to prevent employers from mandating attendance at meetings discussing important subjects, including religious beliefs, political ideologies, and unionization. The plaintiffs contend that these restrictions go against employers’ free speech rights.

Additionally, the plaintiffs assert that SB 399, alongside similar state-level attempts to enforce collective bargaining rights through Assembly Bill 288, undermines federal authority. Assembly Bill 288 allows the state Public Employment Relations Board (PERS) to take action regarding collective bargaining when federal enforcement under the NLRA is not timely.

As the legal battle unfolds, the lawsuit underscores broader changes in labor laws and governance practices under the current federal administration, particularly regarding the interpretations of the NLRA. As it stands, the suspension of SB 399’s enforcement will remain in effect as litigation proceeds in federal district court, with the possibility of a permanent injunction depending on the court’s final judgment.

The NFIB reiterated the necessity for employers to maintain open lines of communication with their employees without restrictions imposed by state statutes like SB 399.

Key Legislations Impacted

• Senate Bill 399 (SB 399)
• Assembly Bill 288

Summary of Court Ruling

• Judge Calabretta issued a preliminary injunction against SB 399.
• The ruling emphasizes employers’ First Amendment rights under the NLRA.
• Enforcement of SB 399 is suspended pending further litigation.

Plaintiffs’ Arguments

• SB 399 infringes on employers’ free speech rights.
• The law creates unnecessary legal liabilities for communication regarding workplace issues.

Context of Legal Battle

• The situation reflects broader shifts in labor law under the current federal administration.
• The NFIB supports open communication between employers and employees.

FAQ Section

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• California Chamber of Commerce
• National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)
• Labor & Employment Law Blog
• Wikipedia: Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution
• Google Search: California Senate Bill 399

Author: Anaheim Staff Writer

Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.