On January 1, 2024, the California Legislature amended the California Business and Professions Code to solidify and reinforce the prohibition of noncompete agreements in employment contracts.

Effective February 14, 2024, Section 16600.1 mandates that employers notify all current and former California employees hired after January 1, 2022, with existing “noncompete agreements” or contracts containing a “noncompete clause” that these agreements are now considered void.  Additionally, Senate Bill 699 introduces Section 16600.5, declaring any contract void under Section 16600 as unenforceable, regardless of signing location or date.  Employers are restricted from enforcing such contracts, even if executed and maintained outside California.