Rising energy prices, regulatory complexity, and high taxes have already made California one of the most difficult states in the country to operate

By Katy Grimes, April 6, 2026 2:04 pm

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association announced its 2026 list of “Breaker Bills” Monday.

Breaker Bills are exactly what the name sounds like – they are a slate of legislative proposals that threaten California’s manufacturing competitiveness by imposing new costs, regulatory burdens, and legal risks on the industry, the CMTA says.

“Maker” Bills strengthen California’s ability to manufacture goods, expand opportunities for innovation and investment, and create good-paying jobs.

“Breaker” Bills would break down California’s competitiveness by imposing new costs, restrictions, or litigation risks on manufacturers, the CMTA explains.

The CMTA says that California manufacturers employ over 1.2 million Californians and contribute almost $400 billion annually to the state’s economy. But rising energy prices, regulatory complexity, and high taxes have already made California one of the most difficult states in the country to operate.

California Manufacturers & Technology Association 2026 ‘Makers & Breakers’ Bills – California Globe