A group of new California laws took effect July 1, 2026, and several could affect Saratoga residents. Here is a plain-language look at a few that touch everyday life.
- Housing near transit: A state law begins overriding some local zoning to allow more multi-family housing near frequently served transit lines, part of California's effort to expand its housing supply.
- Health care wages: A phased minimum wage for health care workers continues, with employees at large hospital systems and dialysis clinics moving toward at least $25 an hour and smaller facilities following tiered timelines.
- Fertility coverage: Under Senate Bill 729, large employers with 100 or more workers must include coverage for infertility diagnosis and treatment, including in vitro fertilization, in their health plans.
- Autonomous vehicles: Assembly Bill 1777 allows police to issue citations to driverless vehicle companies for traffic violations, similar to how human drivers are ticketed.
Additional 2026 changes affect areas such as schools, food labeling and restaurant allergen disclosure. Residents can review the full text of any measure through the California Legislature's website.