CaliforniaWarn

California WARN Act Compliance Checker

Verify your mass layoff notice meets the new 2026 SB 617 requirements under California Labor Code section 1401. Paste your notice text to identify compliance gaps before filing.

Before you send a WARN notice, check this

SB 617 expanded Cal-WARN requirements effective January 1, 2026. Notices missing required language can expose employers to penalties of $500/day per affected employee, plus back-pay for up to 60 days.

Note: This scanner performs automated pattern matching against statutory requirements. Results are informational and do not constitute legal advice. Always consult employment counsel before filing.

Step 1: Paste your notice

Minimum 100 words

Paste the complete text of your California WARN notice below.

Word count: 0

SB 617 Compliance FAQ

What are the SB 617 penalties for non-compliance?

Under California Labor Code § 1401, employers may face penalties of $500 per day for each affected employee, plus back-pay obligations for up to 60 days of wages and benefits.

What is the LWDB coordination statement requirement?

California Labor Code § 1401(c) requires employers to explicitly state whether they will coordinate with the Local Workforce Development Board to provide rapid response services.

What CalFresh information must be included?

SB 617 requires three elements: (1) CalFresh program description, (2) helpline 877-847-3663, and (3) website link to benefitscal.com or calfresh.dss.ca.gov.

Is the Rapid Response language exact wording?

Yes. California Labor Code § 1401 requires word-for-word inclusion. This wording is provided as a conservative safe-harbor approach. The required text is:

"Local Workforce Development Boards and their partners help laid off workers find new jobs. Visit an America's Job Center of California location near you. You can get help with your resume, practice interviewing, search for jobs, and more. You can also learn about training programs to help start a new career."

Compliant vs. non-compliant language

Here's a concrete example of the difference:

Missing (Non-Compliant)

"Affected employees may contact local services for assistance."

Required (SB 617)

"Local Workforce Development Boards and their partners help laid off workers find new jobs. Visit an America's Job Center of California..."

The required 54-word Rapid Response text must appear verbatim in all California WARN notices.

What this tool does not do

Does not determine whether a WARN notice is legally required, does not provide legal advice, and does not replace review by counsel.

Regulatory Compliance Notice: This scanner performs automated text matching against California Labor Code § 1401(c). It does not constitute legal advice. Always consult qualified employment counsel before filing.