12/31/2025
PRESS RELEASE FROM CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR’S OFFICE INCLUDES The Paw Project and Assemblymember Alex Lee’s ANTI-DECLAW BILL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 30, 2025
Governor's Press Office: (916) 445-4571
NEW IN 2026: California laws taking effect in the new year
What you need to know: Starting January 1, a new set of California laws will take effect, impacting health care, housing, workplaces, schools, technology, and corporate disclosure requirements.
SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced key laws taking effect in 2026 that reflect California’s continued focus on public safety, affordability, transparency, and accountability.
“California is proving once again that progress isn’t something we talk about, it’s something we build. While some in Washington remain stuck debating yesterday’s problems, we’re focused on delivering real solutions for today’s families. These new laws reflect who we are: a state that protects workers, respects students, puts people before politics, and isn’t afraid to hold powerful interests accountable.”
Animal welfare
Statewide ban on cat declawing
AB 867 (Lee): Bans non-therapeutic cat declawing statewide. Only medically necessary procedures performed by a licensed veterinarian remain allowed.