But the company has existed for a long time. The higher ups of the company have already vested a lot of stock (which would not be subject to California's reach)

But the company has existed for a long time. The higher ups of the company have already vested a lot of stock (which would not be subject to California's reach). I admit I wouldn't know how options would play out here, but if the reason for the move is 'avoid taxes', they have probably done their due diligence.