#california

State officials have agreed to negotiate with San Mateo County leaders regarding Vehicle Licensing Fee distribution. This agreement could prevent over 1,000 layoffs impacting public services. Assembly Bill 184 outlines plans for a new formula to backfill VLF fund revenues for affected counties. County officials project significant shortfalls without a reworked backfill formula. Negotiations are expected to begin after Labor Day.

https://www.almanacnews.com/san-mateo-county/2026/09/03/state-leaders-san-mateo-county-agree-to-negotiate-funding-fix-ahead-of-1000-layoffs/

J.J. Abrams's production company, Bad Robot, is initiating job cuts. The company plans to move its operations from Los Angeles to New York. These layoffs are expected to impact various departments within the organization. The exact number of affected employees has not yet been disclosed. This move comes amidst industry-wide challenges.

Los Angeles, California

https://www.fastcompany.com/91524432/hollywood-layoffs-2026-disney-sony-bad-robot-list-entertainment-job-cuts

251 permanent layoffs at PayPal’s San Jose headquarters, filed with California employment regulators this week.
The WARN notice is advance notice: the 251 San Jose layoffs are scheduled to take effect Oct. 30, 2026, per the filing made this week. California’s WARN law requires 60 days’ notice before separation, so those employees are still on payroll until then.

https://edd.ca.gov/en/jobs_and_training/Layoff_Services_WARN/

Any news on whether Sacramento will be exiting next year?

Stanford Health Care and John Muir Health are implementing layoffs impacting a significant number of employees. Stanford Health Care will eliminate 79 positions at one location and 16 at another. John Muir Health is cutting a total of 78 roles across Contra Costa County. These workforce reductions are effective in early November. The notices were filed according to the WARN report.

Palo Alto, California

https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/stanford-health-care-john-muir-health-announce-layoffs/

A2 should be responsible and at least do our part for a better planet. That includes less skid marks from fast wearing non-green tires. Also, should do more research on soy or hemp-based tires. With AI, I believe this is now possible. See below how California is being a good steward of our planet:

The California Energy Commission has voted unanimously to require most replacement tires sold in the state to have as low rolling resistance as the tires a car originally came with from the factory.

Blue Diamond Growers is continuing to reduce its Sacramento workforce. This is part of a larger plan to close its long-standing almond processing and packaging facility. The closure was initially announced in June 2025. An additional 82 jobs will be eliminated by the end of the year. This action signifies further workforce reduction at the company's Sacramento operations.

Sacramento, California

https://www.bizjournals.com/sacramento/news/2026/09/01/blue-diamond-82-more-layoffs.html

Amazon and Synopsys are implementing significant layoffs across their Bay Area operations. Amazon will eliminate 148 positions in San Francisco and Sunnyvale, impacting various technical roles. Synopsys, a chip design software company, plans to cut 128 jobs from its Sunnyvale campus. These reductions are expected to take effect in October and December, respectively. The reasons for these specific cuts were not detailed in the filings.

https://finance.yahoo.com/technology/articles/amazon-synopsys-cut-more-275-202215422.html

Any news on whether Concord, CA will remain a speciality hub next year?

Other states have different limits as to whether the layoff is published.

ArsenalBio is undergoing a significant restructuring, laying off 99 employees to focus on in vivo CAR-T therapy. This strategic shift involves halting development of the company's ex vivo clinical assets. The biotech was once a strong fundraiser, securing substantial investments and partnerships. The company is now seeking new opportunities for its existing technology and assets. This move places ArsenalBio in a competitive field with several established players.

San Francisco, California

https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/arsenalbio-sheds-most-staff-pivot-vivo-car-t

California is poised to enact a new law requiring businesses to disclose if artificial intelligence or automation is replacing workers during layoffs. This legislation, which has passed the state Senate, will expand existing layoff notification requirements. Employers will need to include information about AI or automation in their official layoff notices and reports to the state's labor agency. The bill aims to provide greater transparency for workers affected by technological displacement. Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to sign the measure into law.

Sacramento, California

https://news.bloomberglaw.com/daily-labor-report/california-passes-bill-requiring-notices-of-ai-related-layoffs

The Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego's board is investigating allegations of financial mismanagement following significant staff layoffs. Current and former employees submitted a letter of no confidence, requesting the executive director's dismissal and a formal audit. The board has acknowledged receiving these concerns and is conducting a thorough review. Documentation suggests financial and operational issues have impacted the institution's ability to meet payroll and fulfill its mission. The museum confirmed nearly half of its staff was eliminated on August 17th.

San Diego, California

https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2026/08/26/after-layoffs-institute-of-contemporary-art-san-diego-faces-internal-review/

Hearing whispers of some restructuring of the branches in CA. Specifically the South LA branch becoming the main branch and OC and the Ventura branches being closed or turned into ghost warehouses. Anyone have any more info on that?

Anduril Industries is investing an additional $1 billion into a new campus in Long Beach, California. This expansion will include facilities for offices, labs, and prototype manufacturing. The company is developing advanced technologies such as drones and autonomous fighter jets. In contrast, Autodesk is reducing its workforce by approximately 1,000 employees. These layoffs are attributed to strategic realignments and a focus on artificial intelligence leadership.

Long Beach, California

https://www.latimes.com/0000019b-fd37-dccc-a3bb-ff3fc3ce0000-123

The Long Beach Unified School District has laid off more than 500 employees to address a significant financial deficit. These cuts include temporary certified staff, federally-funded Head Start program employees, librarians, and various support staff. District employees express deep concern that these layoffs will negatively impact student learning, wellness, and increase the workload for remaining staff. Despite these concerns, the district maintains that core student services will be protected. The decision comes as the district faces a nearly $70 million budget shortfall.

Long Beach, California

https://sigtrib.com/lbusd-laid-off-over-500-employees-teachers-and-staff-are-concerned-about-the-long-term-impact/

Long Beach is proposing significant layoffs affecting over 260 city employees to address a $58 million budget deficit. The cuts will impact various departments, including fire, police, and homeless services. Over 200 vacant positions are also slated for elimination. This measure is necessary due to rising personnel costs, legal payouts, and a slowdown in tax revenue. The city aims to balance its $4 billion spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year.

Long Beach, California

https://lbpost.com/news/city/long-beach-city-layoffs-budget-cuts/

Blue Shield of California is implementing layoffs across the state. The company will eliminate 18 positions in the Sacramento area. These cuts are part of a larger statewide reduction of 60 jobs. The affected locations are El Dorado Hills and Rancho Cordova. This news indicates a restructuring within the organization.

https://www.bizjournals.com/sacramento/news/2026/08/25/blue-shield-sacramento-area-technology-layoffs.html

Megan Ellison's Annapurna Pictures has laid off approximately 30 employees, representing over 15% of its workforce. This significant reduction comes as the independent media company navigates shifting market conditions. The company confirmed the layoffs, stating they reflect current business realities. Annapurna is currently realigning its operations to adapt to the changing landscape of the entertainment industry. Ellison remains at the helm as CEO during this period of restructuring.

Los Angeles, California

https://variety.com/2026/film/news/megan-ellison-annapurna-layoffs-1236843926/

Automated cell therapy manufacturer Cellares is implementing layoffs due to the termination of a significant customer partnership. CEO Fabian Gerlinghaus stated the company needs to "resize" following this development. The exact number of affected employees and the identity of the departed customer remain undisclosed. This reduction aims to refocus resources on Cellares' ongoing clinical and commercial programs. The company maintains that its technology is proven and its fundamentals remain strong.

South San Francisco, California

https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/cellares-ceo-seeks-resize-company-after-loss-large-cell-therapy-manufacturing-customer

Palo Alto Unified School District is confronting a $33 million budget deficit for the upcoming school year. This significant financial challenge is expected to result in substantial layoffs and difficult decisions for the school board. The deficit is too large to be addressed by minor cost-saving measures alone. The district will first attempt to minimize job losses by not filling vacant positions and reassigning current staff. However, eliminating programs, services, and jobs is likely unavoidable.

Palo Alto, California

https://nypost.com/2026/08/23/us-news/palo-alto-unified-school-district-faces-possible-layoffs-amid-33m-budget-cut/

Oakland city officials announced their upcoming budget will not include layoffs or further service reductions. The mid-cycle budget proposal aims to maintain current spending levels across essential services like public safety and homelessness support. Leaders emphasized that the budget relies on reliably projected revenue, not uncertain sources like the Coliseum sale. They also previewed plans for Measure E, a parcel tax aimed at funding deferred maintenance and expanding services. The full budget and Measure E spending plan are set to be released soon.

Oakland, California

https://oaklandside.org/2026/05/14/barbara-lee-budget-proposal-oakland-measure-e/

The Oakland City Council has approved a new budget with amendments, narrowly passing the proposal. This budget will guide the city's finances for the upcoming fiscal year. Key allocations include funding for affordable housing, fire engine replacements, and incentives for the film industry. While some council members raised concerns about unfilled positions, the final vote did not result in any layoffs. The budget prioritizes public safety, parks, and homelessness reduction.

Oakland, California

https://www.kalw.org/bay-area-news/2026-06-16/oakland-budget-passes-no-layoffs-empty-positions-and-a-win-for-oakland-filmmakers

Oakland's City Council has approved mid-cycle budget amendments totaling $4 billion. The approved plan avoids any layoffs for city employees. Supporters state the budget prioritizes public safety and essential services. It utilizes one-time funds to cover immediate expenses. The amendments also address long-term financial obligations.

Oakland, California

https://abc7news.com/post/oakland-city-council-approves-mid-cycle-amendments-4-billion-budget-layoffs-measure-failure/19292791/

California-based space start-up Vast has reduced its workforce by 46 employees, representing approximately 4% of its staff. This decision follows a significant $500 million funding round secured by the company. A company spokesperson stated the layoffs were performance-related and occurred during the mid-year review. Despite these cuts, Vast is actively recruiting for numerous other roles. The company remains committed to its ambitious space station projects.

San Francisco, California

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/space-station-start-up-vast-lays-off-46-employees/story

Stone Brewing is closing three Escondido locations and eliminating 220 jobs. This move follows the company's sale by Sapporo to Firestone Walker and Duvel Moortgat. Production will be consolidated at facilities in Paso Robles, California, and Kansas City, Missouri. The company stated it is committed to supporting affected employees through this transition. This downsizing reflects broader challenges in the independent craft beer industry.

Escondido, California

https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2026-08-21/stone-brewing-bumble-bee-foods-layoffs

Sacramento City Unified school board approved approximately 100 additional employee terminations. This action follows earlier authorization of over 500 layoff notices. An administrative judge recommended against this latest batch of layoffs, but the board was not obligated to follow the advice. These cuts are part of efforts to address a significant budget deficit and avoid state intervention. The district expects to rescind some notices before the end of June, but the exact number remains uncertain.

Sacramento, California

https://www.abridged.org/news/sacramento-school-board-decides-on-more-layoffs/

Special education teachers in Santa Clara County are concerned about upcoming layoffs. Declining enrollment has led the county office of education to plan the closure of eight preschool and special education classes. This action is expected to result in approximately 31 teacher layoffs for the next school year. Officials state these layoffs are not yet final and will be voted on in June. Teachers report that existing classes are already struggling with larger student numbers and increased behavioral issues.

San Jose, California

https://sanjosespotlight.com/special-education-cuts-could-strain-teachers-in-santa-clara-county/

East Side Union High School District is implementing significant layoffs due to financial challenges. The district faces a substantial budget deficit and a decline in student enrollment. These factors have necessitated the difficult decision to eliminate over 80 positions. The layoffs are scheduled to take effect at the start of the 2026-27 academic year. This action follows a school board vote in January.

San Jose, California

https://localnewsmatters.org/2026/03/19/east-san-jose-school-district-to-lay-off-over-80-workers-amid-deficit-enrollment-drop/

Hundreds of San Francisco city employees rallied and marched to protest proposed budget cuts and layoffs. Mayor Daniel Lurie plans to eliminate 500 positions due to a significant projected deficit. The cuts will affect various city services, including youth and senior clinics, and programs aimed at reducing violent crime. Some workers and patients expressed anger and concern over the impact of these decisions. Union members plan further action before a health department meeting.

San Francisco, California

https://www.ktvu.com/news/it-honestly-felt-like-disrespectful-punch-gut-sf-nurse-says-hundreds-protest-127-city-layoffs

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie defended the decision to eliminate hundreds of city positions. He stated these actions are painful but necessary. The cuts are intended to address the city's projected budget deficit. Lurie emphasized the importance of responsible taxpayer dollar management. He believes these measures will ensure continued city services and recovery.

San Francisco, California

https://localnewsmatters.org/2026/04/14/sf-lurie-layoffs-budget-deficit/

What happens to RSU vesting within next 60 days? Would anything within the WARN period vest?

San Diego Unified School District is preparing to eliminate over 200 positions. These potential cuts affect various roles, including cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and aides. The district hopes to reassign about half of the affected employees. This would leave approximately 70 individuals facing actual layoffs. Other districts in the county are also considering widespread cuts.

San Diego, California

https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/hundreds-face-layoffs-san-diego-unified-school-district-cut-staff/3995669/

G3 Enterprises is laying off 66 employees at its Modesto facility. The company cited declining consumer demand, inflation, and rising expenses within the wine industry as reasons for the workforce reduction. These layoffs are expected to be permanent and primarily affect workers in closure operations. The Modesto plant will continue to operate, producing other types of closures and capsules. This action reflects broader market challenges impacting the entire wine sector.

Modesto, California

https://www.thederrick.com/news/entertainment/twist-cap-maker-announces-layoffs-as-californias-wine-industry-struggles/article_3d766045-9949-5e91-bd17-5b91bfca9a7d.html

Essendant has announced an additional 103 layoffs in California, bringing the total confirmed workforce reductions to 1,278 across six states. These cuts are part of a larger restructuring that includes facility closures and the exploration of potential sales or new capital to prevent liquidation. The latest actions affect distribution centers in Sacramento and Perris, with layoffs scheduled for October 3rd. This expansion of job cuts follows Essendant's strategic shift away from traditional office supplies towards janitorial, sanitation, foodservice, and technology products. The company's future remains uncertain as it navigates these significant operational changes.

California

https://distributionstrategy.com/2026/08/essendant-layoffs-reach-1278-as-restructuring-expands-to-california/

FedEx is laying off 42 truck drivers as part of a nationwide network restructuring. The company is reducing its workforce by 62 employees at its Palm Springs facility. This move is a component of a larger initiative called Network 2.0. The goal is to simplify delivery operations and improve efficiency. FedEx is offering impacted employees support services.

Palm Springs, California

https://cdllife.com/2026/42-truck-drivers-affected-by-fedex-layoffs-in-palm-springs/

Netflix is closing two of its internal game development studios, Night School and Moonloot. This move signifies a continued reduction in the streaming giant's in-house game studio operations. Night School, known for "Oxenfree," recently released a game on Netflix that received positive remarks. The company stated these closures are part of a strategic shift to focus on specific game genres. These actions follow previous studio shutdowns and sales by Netflix.

Los Angeles, California

https://www.gamefile.news/p/netflix-closes-night-school-moonloot

California approved the merger so I guess we'll see what happens next