CA Latino Caucus Statement on Governor Signing Employer Transparency Bill to Protect Workers from COVID-19

AB 685 by Assemblymember Eloise Release is a 2020 Latino Caucus Priority Bill

SACRAMENTO – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 685 by Assemblymember Eloise Reyes (D-San Bernardino), a priority bill of the California Latino Legislative Caucus that will save lives and help reopen the economy safely by requiring employers to report COVID-19 infections in workplaces.

“Our Latino community accounts for an overwhelming, disproportionate number of California’s coronavirus deaths because it’s Latinos who largely work in the state’s agricultural fields, meatpacking plants and garment factories that are now hotspots for COVID-19 outbreaks,” said Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego), Chair of the Latino Caucus. “When an employer forces workers to remain silent about positive coronavirus cases in their workplace, we are all put at risk. Now with today’s signing by the Governor, AB 685 gives all workers who are on the frontlines of this crisis the information they need to protect themselves, their families, and the public.”

For questions or to schedule an interview with a member of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, contact Sami Gallegos: Samantha.Gallegos@asm.ca.gov