California Law Mandates Gender-Neutral Toy Sections in Major Retailers

Businesses face fines for non-compliance, sparking criticism of legislative overreach and free speech violation.

California law requires major retailers to have a gender-neutral section for toys and child care items.
Law applies to department stores with 500 or more employees and covers items traditionally marketed for either girls or boys.
Businesses face a fine of $250 for the first violation, and $500 for each subsequent violation.
Law has been criticized as an overreach of the California Legislature and a violation of free speech.
Law will go into effect on January 1, 2024.