CA SB1078

Requires arbitrators in consumer arbitration cases to disclose any solicitations made by private arbitration companies to parties or their lawyers within the last two years (solicitations made before January 1, 2017 are exempt).

Prohibits private arbitration companies from soliciting parties or their lawyers during pending consumer arbitrations.

Prohibits arbitrators from accepting offers of employment or new professional relationships from parties or their lawyers from appointment through conclusion of the arbitration; in consumer cases, prohibits accepting offers as dispute resolution neutrals unless all parties agree in writing beforehand.

Exempts arbitrations conducted by self-regulatory organizations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and those governed by collective bargaining agreements from these requirements.

Declares all provisions of the bill severable, meaning if one provision is invalid, the remaining provisions remain in effect.