FSC: New California Bill Aimed at Adult Performers 'Patronizing, Ignorant'

FSC: New California Bill Aimed at Adult Performers 'Patronizing, Ignorant'

LOS ANGELES — The Free Speech Coalition (FSC) has released a statement in response to AB2389, a bill recently introduced in the California State Assembly that would require all adult performers in the state to undergo a criminal history check, among other measures.

The trade organization's statement follows:

A new bill in the California State Assembly would require every adult performer in the state to obtain a business license, undergo a criminal history check and be Livescan fingerprinted — along with a host of other measures supposedly aimed at protecting adult performers from trafficking and workplace harassment.

AB2389 was introduced into session by Rep. Cristina Garcia and Rep. Lorena Gonzalez on Wednesday. In addition to the licensing requirements, the bill declares all adult performers to be categorized as employees under California AB5 — a bill previously introduced by Gonzalez.

“AB2389 places huge, discriminatory burdens on adult performers in the name of protecting them,” says Michelle L. LeBlanc, Executive Director of Free Speech Coalition. “It’s patronizing and ignorant of the fights already waged by adult workers on issues like harassment, workplace safety and privacy protection. It’s unclear why someone hoping to help adult performers would draft a bill as disrespectful as this.”

Under the bill, every adult performer — including cam and clip models — would be required to pay for a permit or business license before working in California, as well as submit to a background check and fingerprinting before they would be allowed to work. Each performer would be required to undergo mandatory, in-person workplace safety training, at their own expense, every two years, and comply with the AB5 contractor law, regardless of the specifics of their work or income.

AB2389 also mandates the Department of Industrial Relations develop safety protocols and training in conjunction with performers, doctors, and therapists — something the Free Speech Coalition and various performers are already working toward with Cal/OSHA.

“We are not against regulations or laws that support and protect adult performers, but this isn’t one of them,” says LeBlanc. “You’ve heard us say this before: ‘Nothing about us without us.’ We were not invited to participate in the drafting of this bill. As a result, we have a bill that treats performers like criminals, and performers should be outraged.”

Find the FSC online and follow the org on Twitter.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

2025 XBIZ Amsterdam Website Launches With Call for Speakers

XBIZ is pleased to announce that the website for its annual European conference, XBIZ Amsterdam, is now live.

NC Governor Vetoes Bill Targeting Adult, Could Face Override

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein today vetoed a bill imposing new regulations that adult industry observers have warned could push adult websites and platforms to ban most adult creators and content.

Valerica Steele Headlines Jonni Darkko's 'DVP Sluts'

Valerica Steele toplines director Jonni Darkko’s “DVP Sluts,” from Evil Angel.

Michael Ninn Returns With 'Catherine' Sequel Made Entirely by AI

Veteran filmmaker Michael Ninn, though retired from the adult business for the past 10 years, recently unveiled a new episodic project titled "Catherine II: The Series," which serves as a sequel to his 2005 adult film "Catherine."

25,000 Sign Petition to Legalize Pornography in Ukraine

An OnlyFans model’s petition to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine has amassed the 25,000 signatures required for official consideration by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

WannaCollab Joins Pineapple Support as Supporter-Level Sponsor

WannaCollab has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

Alison Rey Stars in Latest From New Sensations

Alison Rey stars with Isiah Maxwell in the latest release from New Sensations.

FSC Unpacks SCOTUS Age Verification Ruling in Webinar

The Free Speech Coalition conducted a public webinar Tuesday to help adult industry stakeholders understand the Supreme Court’s recent decision in FSC v. Paxton, and its potential implications.

Bad Bella Fronts Latest From MYLF

Bad Bella stars with Hayden Wild in the latest release from MYLF.

Abella Danger Opens Up Like Never Before in X3 Magazine

Powerhouse star Abella Danger lights up the latest issue of X3 magazine, the industry’s premier “authenticity first” publication spotlighting the real personalities, passions, and stories behind today’s top creators.

Show More