New California Law Bars Amazon from Tracking Workers with Algorithms

California has become the first state to enact a law that protects workers from unsafe conditions in warehouses, a measure that takes specific aim at Amazon for its practices surrounding production quotas, NPR reports.

Amazon warehouse workers, for example, are tracked by algorithms which measure their “time off task” to identify underperforming workers.

The new law, according to a statement from California Gov. Gavin Newsome, calls for companies to disclose production quotas to their workers and prohibits the use of algorithms that disrupt worker rights such as rest periods, bathroom breaks or compliance with health and safety laws. It also ensures workers cannot be fired or retaliated against for failing to meet an “unsafe quota.”

“We cannot allow corporations to put profit over people,” says Newsome. “The hardworking warehouse employees who have helped sustain us during these unprecedented times should not have to risk injury or face punishment as a result of exploitative quotas that violate basic health and safety.”

The California Retailers Association, however, offered a contrasting viewpoint.

“We are disappointed Governor Newsom signed AB 701, which will exacerbate our current supply chain issues, increase the cost of living for all Californians and eliminate good-paying jobs,” says Rachel Michelin, president of the CRA. “With California’s ports facing record backlogs of ships waiting off the coast and inflation spiking to the fastest pace in 13 years, AB 701 will make matters worse for everyone.”

Read more at NPR.