California Legislature considers gender identity, wave energy bills

Here are a few bills we're keeping an eye on:

Gender identity

A.B. 957 would enable courts to consider a parent's affirmation of their child's gender identity in proceedings for deciding custody.

• Supporters say it would protect trans youth without making gender identity an overriding factor.
• Opponents say it could be weaponized against parents.
• Status: Passed Assembly. Awaiting a Senate vote.

Layoff notification

A.B. 1356 would require employers to give impacted workers a 90-day notice before a mass layoff — defined as the termination of more than 50 workers.

• Supporters say it would ensure fair treatment and would strengthen protections for workers' rights.
• Opponents say the original 60-day notice is enough and that broadening it could cause problems for employers.
• Status: Passed Assembly. Awaiting a Senate vote.

Wave energy

S.B. 605 would direct the California Energy Commission to study the merits of wave and tidal energy development. This type of energy extracts kinetic energy from ocean waves' motion.

• Supporters say it's an important step toward incorporating a new source of clean, renewable energy.
• Opponents say it's unclear how affordable the technology is and could cause damage by rapidly industrializing the ocean.
• Status: Passed the Senate. Awaiting an Assembly vote.