Yes, you can still deduct unreimbursed employee expenses on your CA state income tax return.   You will be asked about these during the federal interview and TurboTax will transfer the information to your CA return.  

The Job-Related Expenses Deduction was updated this year in a way that’s more likely to benefit you on your state tax return than your federal return.  

You can only claim the Job-Related Expenses Deduction on your federal tax return this year if you’re in one of these professions or situations:

• Armed Forces reservist
• Qualified performing artist
• Fee-basis government official
• You're disabled and have impairment-related expenses

Some states are keeping this tax break available though so that taxpayers can claim it on their state return if they have qualifying job-related expenses. If your job-related expenses qualify and meet your state’s requirements, we’ll automatically add this deduction to your state return.